In their second game of the 2017-2018 season, the New York Rangers will be facing off against the Buffalo Sabres.
Both teams are currently rebuilding, with the Sabres in a constant state of reform and the Rangers just entering the process this past season. Both teams had disappointing years in 2017-2018, with the Rangers missing the playoffs for the first time in seven seasons.
The Sabres failed to qualify for the post-season for the seventh consecutive season. Furthermore, they haven’t made it out of the first round since the 2006-2007 season when they defeated the Rangers.
For the first time in a while, New York and Buffalo are in somewhat similar positions.