Here are the latest updates and rumors around the Buffalo Sabres for the week of Sept. 14-20, 2026.
Sabres Prospect Challenge Is Underway
Every September, right before training camp begins, the Sabres host a prospect challenge that includes the prospects of their organization and the Boston Bruins. Two games took place. The first was Sun, Sept. 13 @ 5 pm ET, in which the Bruins won 6-1. The other was on Mon, Sept. 14, which resulted in the Bruins winning 4-3 in overtime on the back of four goals from James Hagens.
Noah Ostlund Signs Contract Extension
The Sabres and Noah Ostlund have agreed on an eight-year contract extension worth $6.6 million average annual value (AAV). Last season he played in 60 games in the regular season and recorded 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists), while in the playoffs he played in three games, recording two points.
He’s entering his second season in the NHL and is expected to take on a much bigger role this season, especially with the departure of Alex Tuch. He’s projected to play left-wing on the second line, but can easily garner some first-line minutes at some point this season if he takes another step forward.
Position Battles to Watch
Training camp always brings position battles, and one of the biggest this year is on the top line. With Tuch gone, the question becomes: who steps into that first‑line winger role?
Right now, all signs point to Zach Benson, fresh off a seven‑year contract extension. He’s the projected replacement, and the expectation is that he’ll shoulder the bulk of the responsibility Tuch left behind. Benson’s style, competitiveness, and growth make him the leading candidate to fill that void and anchor the wing alongside Buffalo’s top talent.
Goaltending is another position to watch. Last season we saw a split between Alex Lyon and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. Right now it is unclear who will be the opening night starter when they visit the Columbus Blue Jackets on Oct. 1. Either of them would be fine taking the crease, but it will be an intriguing matchup to see who head coach Lindy Ruff names as the starter.
Sabres hockey is officially back, and it feels incredible. Preseason action kicks off next week, and the regular season is now just 16 days away. After a long summer, the countdown is finally hitting that point where the excitement becomes real, rosters are taking shape, battles are heating up, and the buzz around Buffalo is starting to build again.
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