As the NHL prepares for the 2024/25 season, the excitement and anticipation is palpable across the league. The Florida Panthers will enter their October curtain-raiser against the Boston Bruins as the reigning champions after knocking off Connor McDavid's Edmonton Oilers to capture the Stanley Cup for the first time in history last year. However, it is the team they beat earlier this year that enters the new campaign as the favorites, led by McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
But while these two are at the top of the pile, spare the thought of these two teams entering the 2024/25 season with the longest postseason drought of anyone in the league.
The Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabers hold the unpopular record for the longest current postseason drought in the NHL, having missed the playoffs for 13 consecutive seasons. Over the years, New York State outfits have tried various rebuilding strategies, often with little success, while a revolving door of coaches and general managers have compounded their problems.
However, there is a glimmer of hope for Sabers fans. After finishing just seven points out of last season's wild card spot, there is hope that a bright future is on the horizon, and the latest NHL betting odds have them outside of +5000 for the champions next season.
The team has made significant changes in the past year, including the acquisition of promising young talents through the draft. Players like Owen Power and Jack Quinn represent a new core that could return the franchise to the playoffs for the first time since losing 4-3 in the first round of the 2011 postseason. If it makes it to this stage, it will aim to complete another streak, advancing to the playoffs for the first time since 2007.
PATRICK KANE WINS AFTER BACK IN CHICAGO 😱 pic.twitter.com/evBAqP1E5w
– SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) February 26, 2024
The Detroit Red Wings
The Detroit Red Wings are a storied franchise with a rich history of success, but currently find themselves in the midst of an eight-season playoff drought. For a team that once set the standard for excellence in the NHL, this dry spell has been a challenge especially for its loyal fans. The Red Wings were a dominant force at the turn of the millennium, winning the Stanley Cup in back-to-back seasons in 1997 and 1998, before adding more crowns in 2002 and 2008.
Despite their recent woes, the Motor City outfit has shown signs of life in recent years. Under the leadership of General Manager Steve Yzerman, they have been rebuilding their roster with an eye toward the future. This strategy has included a focus on drawing and developing young talent, such as Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond, who are expected to play a key role in the club's revival. The addition of Chicago Blackhawks legend Patrick Kane has added much-needed star power and experience to the side, and he will be aiming to lead his team to the playoffs next season at the ripe old age of 35.
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