Kristen Shilton Apr 28, 2026, 07:30 AM ET

Close

Kristen Shilton is a national NHL reporter for ESPN.

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Sports were the first reality show for a reason: the potential for unpredictability.

In a world where human error is slowly being phased out -- and computer models attempt to decipher outcomes weeks in advance -- athletics (particularly team sports) remain rooted in a beautiful unknown -- in energies, superstitions and vibes. In the performance of people feeding off those things to reach a singular goal.

The Buffalo Sabres exemplify that, in answering why now appears to be their time.

After 14 years without reaching the postseason, Buffalo returned as Atlantic Division winners after a 109-point season.…