NHL Playoff Picture Comes Into Focus

Sabres, Red Wings look to clinch postseason berths

Apr. 4, 2026 at 3:56pm

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As the NHL regular season winds down, the race for the playoffs is heating up. The Buffalo Sabres are hoping to end their 14-year postseason drought, while the Detroit Red Wings are looking to secure a playoff spot. Both teams have key strategies they're focusing on to make the playoffs.

Why it matters

Making the playoffs is crucial for NHL teams, as it provides them a chance to compete for the Stanley Cup. The Sabres and Red Wings have both struggled to reach the postseason in recent years, so clinching a berth would be a significant accomplishment for these franchises and their fanbases.

The details

The Sabres are looking to finally break through and end their lengthy playoff drought. They've been focusing on starting games well and scoring the first goal, which has been a recipe for success this season. Meanwhile, the Red Wings are relying on the strong play of young stars like Moritz Seider and veteran leadership from players like James van Riemsdyk to push them into the playoffs.

  • The NHL regular season is winding down, with the playoffs set to begin in the coming weeks.
  • The Sabres and Red Wings are both fighting for playoff spots with just a few games remaining on the schedule.

The players

Moritz Seider

A young star defenseman for the Detroit Red Wings.

James van Riemsdyk

A veteran forward providing leadership for the Detroit Red Wings.

Todd McLellan

The head coach of the Detroit Red Wings.

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What they’re saying

“We've got to start well and score first. That's been a big key for us this season.”

— Moritz Seider, Detroit Red Wings Player

“The playoff drought has gone on too long. We're determined to end it this year.”

— James van Riemsdyk, Detroit Red Wings Player

What’s next

The Sabres and Red Wings will continue their push for the playoffs in the final games of the regular season. The NHL postseason bracket will be set in the coming days.

The takeaway

The race for the NHL playoffs is heating up, with the Sabres and Red Wings both fighting to end their postseason droughts. The strategies of these two teams - starting strong and scoring first for the Red Wings, and ending a lengthy drought for the Sabres - will be key factors in determining which teams make the playoffs.