Much Ado About Nothing – Sabres Open With Shutout Loss

The Buffalo Sabres opened the 2018-19 season pretty much the same way as they ended the 2017-18 season - with a loss.  With a sell-out crowd jacked up about a promising rookie, a revamped lineup and renewed hope after years of disappointment, the Sabres did what they do best - disappoint their fans with a 4-0 loss.

What can you say?  The Sabres gave some effort, but their efforts were ineffective.  Probably more simply said, the Bruins came to win and the Sabres couldn't match the Bruins intensity.  Sure, it's a young team against a proven group of veterans, but if you thought the Sabres would make an honest run for the playoffs....I would say guess again.

This Sabres team is improved and will continue to improve and gel as the season progresses, but they're still a long way from being a serious contender.  There are just too many very good teams in the NHL for the Sabres to be taken seriously right now.

The Bruins showed the Sabres how it's done.  Jaroslav Halak made 32 saves and Brad Marchand assisted on all four Boston goals to lead the way.

The loss spoiled the debut of rookie Rasmus Dahlin.  He was on the ice for one of the Bruins goals, he had 2 hits and a giveaway.   There will be much better nights in the future.

The Sabres host the New York Rangers on Saturday night.