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Special Team Struggles Lead To Sabres Loss In Season Opener

The Buffalo Sabres dropped their opening contest of the campaign by a 6-3 margin against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday, hampered by poor special teams performance. Despite carrying elite offensive players like Tage Thompson and Rasmus Dahlin, the squad failed to capitalize on four power-play opportunities, which included a full two-minute stretch with a five-on-three advantage.

Head coach Lindy Ruff noted that his group was overly intricate with puck movement during those man-advantage sequences.

Defensive special teams units also faltered for Buffalo after finishing near the top of the league during the prior year. Columbus converted twice on three power-play chances, a breakdown Ruff attributed to integrating new personnel onto the penalty kill.

Looking ahead, the club prepares to host the Chicago Blackhawks for their upcoming home opener on Saturday.

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