Sabres and Bruins Set for Playoff Showdown

NHL odds, picks, and best bets for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs series

Apr. 20, 2026 at 4:42am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of blue, gold, and white representing the teams' colors and the fast-paced action on the ice.The Sabres and Bruins renew their playoff rivalry in a high-stakes first-round matchup filled with intensity and drama.Buffalo Today

The Buffalo Sabres and Boston Bruins are set to face off in Game 1 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs series on Sunday. This highly anticipated matchup between the two division rivals is expected to be a hard-fought battle on the ice, with both teams looking to gain an early advantage in the series.

Why it matters

The Sabres and Bruins have a long-standing rivalry, and this playoff series is sure to add another chapter to their storied history. Both teams have passionate fan bases, and the game will be a showcase of some of the best talent in the NHL as they compete for a chance to advance in the playoffs.

The details

The Sabres and Bruins finished the regular season with similar records, setting the stage for what should be a closely contested series. The Sabres are led by their young star center, Jack Eichel, while the Bruins boast a deep roster featuring veteran players like Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand. Oddsmakers have the Bruins as slight favorites, but the Sabres have shown they can compete with the league's best teams.

  • The Sabres and Bruins will face off in Game 1 on Sunday, April 20, 2026.
  • The series is part of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The players

Jack Eichel

The Sabres' star center and one of the top young players in the NHL.

Patrice Bergeron

The veteran Bruins center and four-time Selke Trophy winner as the league's best defensive forward.

Brad Marchand

The Bruins' skilled and physical winger, known for his agitating style of play.

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What they’re saying

“This is going to be a classic playoff matchup between two great teams. The Sabres and Bruins have a lot of history, and I expect this series to be a hard-fought battle from start to finish.”

— Jack Eichel, Sabres Center

“We're excited for the challenge of facing the Sabres in the playoffs. They're a talented team, but we know what it takes to win at this time of year. It's going to be a great series.”

— Patrice Bergeron, Bruins Center

What’s next

The winner of the Sabres-Bruins series will advance to the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The takeaway

This first-round playoff matchup between the Sabres and Bruins promises to be an exciting and hard-fought series between two of the NHL's top teams. Fans can expect a physical, high-intensity battle as the two division rivals compete for a chance to advance in the playoffs.