30 Facts About Sabres Vs. Devils

Sabres vs. Devils: A Storied Rivalry

The Buffalo Sabres and New Jersey Devils have faced off numerous times, creating a rich history filled with memorable moments. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about these two teams and their rivalry.

Historical Background

Understanding the origins of the Sabres and Devils provides context for their rivalry.

1. The Buffalo Sabres were established in 1970. They joined the NHL as an expansion team alongside the Vancouver Canucks.

2. The New Jersey Devils were originally the Kansas City Scouts. Founded in 1974, they moved to Colorado in 1976 before settling in New Jersey in 1982.

3. The Sabres' name was chosen through a fan contest. The name "Sabres" was selected to represent strength and agility.

4. The Devils' name was inspired by local folklore. The "Jersey Devil" is a mythical creature said to inhabit the Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey.

Memorable Games

Certain matchups between the Sabres and Devils have left a lasting impact on fans.

5. The 1994 playoff series was intense. The Devils defeated the Sabres in a seven-game series, with Game 7 going into double overtime.

6. The 2000 Eastern Conference Finals were a showdown. The Devils won the series 4-1, eventually capturing the Stanley Cup that year.

7. A 2006 regular-season game saw a high-scoring affair. The Sabres triumphed 8-5, showcasing their offensive prowess.

8. In 2018, the Sabres ended a long losing streak against the Devils. Buffalo snapped a 10-game skid with a 3-1 victory.

Star Players

Both teams have had their share of legendary players who made significant contributions.

9. Dominik Hasek was a standout goalie for the Sabres. Known as "The Dominator," he won six Vezina Trophies during his time in Buffalo.

10. Martin Brodeur is a Devils legend. He holds numerous NHL records, including most wins and shutouts by a goaltender.

11. Pat LaFontaine was a key player for the Sabres. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, he scored 148 points in the 1992-93 season.

12. Scott Stevens was a defensive powerhouse for the Devils. Known for his physical play, he captained the team to three Stanley Cup victories.

Coaching Legends

Coaches have played pivotal roles in shaping the teams' successes and failures.

13. Lindy Ruff is the longest-serving coach in Sabres history. He led the team from 1997 to 2013, guiding them to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1999.

14. Jacques Lemaire brought a defensive mindset to the Devils. His coaching style helped the team win their first Stanley Cup in 1995.

15. Ted Nolan won the Jack Adams Award with the Sabres. He was named NHL Coach of the Year in 1997.

16. Pat Burns led the Devils to a Stanley Cup in 2003. Known for his fiery coaching style, he was posthumously inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Fan Culture

The fans of both teams bring energy and passion to every game.

17. Sabres fans are known for their loyalty. Despite ups and downs, they consistently fill the KeyBank Center.

18. Devils fans have a unique chant. "Marty's Better!" became a staple during Brodeur's tenure, aimed at opposing goalies.

19. The Sabres' "Goathead" logo is iconic. Used from 1996 to 2006, it remains a fan favorite.

20. Devils fans celebrate with "The Rock." The Prudential Center, nicknamed "The Rock," is known for its electric atmosphere.

Records and Achievements

Both teams have set impressive records and achieved significant milestones.

21. The Sabres hold the record for the longest playoff game. In 1994, they played a game that lasted 125 minutes and 43 seconds against the Devils.

22. The Devils have three Stanley Cup championships. They won in 1995, 2000, and 2003.

23. The Sabres reached the Stanley Cup Finals twice. They made it in 1975 and 1999 but fell short both times.

24. The Devils' 2000-01 season was remarkable. They set a franchise record with 111 points.

Rivalry Highlights

Key moments have defined the rivalry between these two teams.

25. The "No Goal" controversy in 1999. Brett Hull's controversial goal in the Stanley Cup Finals against the Sabres remains a hot topic.

26. The 2007 brawl. A massive fight broke out between the teams, resulting in multiple suspensions and fines.

27. The 2010 Winter Classic rumors. There was speculation that the Sabres and Devils would face off in the outdoor game, but it didn't materialize.

28. The 2013 shootout thriller. The Sabres won 4-3 in a shootout, with Thomas Vanek scoring the decisive goal.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, both teams have promising futures with young talent.

29. Jack Eichel was a cornerstone for the Sabres. Drafted second overall in 2015, he became the team's captain and a key player.

30. Nico Hischier is a rising star for the Devils. The first overall pick in 2017, he has shown great potential as a leader and playmaker.

Final Whistle

Sabres vs. Devils games have always been thrilling. From intense rivalries to unforgettable moments, these matchups never disappoint. Fans love the history, the drama, and the sheer excitement each game brings. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or a casual viewer, there's something special about watching these two teams face off.

The stats, the players, and the memorable plays all contribute to the rich tapestry of this rivalry. It's not just about the scores; it's about the passion and dedication both teams bring to the ice. Every game is a new chapter in their ongoing story.

So, next time the Sabres and Devils hit the rink, remember the history and the facts that make this rivalry so captivating. Enjoy the game, cheer for your team, and appreciate the legacy of Sabres vs. Devils.