Apr 19, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA; Boston Bruins center James Hagens (44) tries to control the puck as Buffalo Sabres center Tage Thompson (72) defends during the third period in game one of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
While Lindy Ruff is focused on Game 2, Bruins coach Marco Sturm is asking his team to remain cool during the playoff rollercoaster following Buffalo’s remarkable comeback triumph
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BUFFALO – Following the excitement surrounding the first NHL playoff game in Buffalo in 15 years, the Buffalo Sabres and Boston Bruins are scheduled to reunite.
After the dramatic conclusion to Game 1, both teams will meet for Game 2 at KeyBank Center on Tuesday.
The Sabres beat the Bruins 4-3 in the opening game of their Eastern Conference first-round series, completing a remarkable comeback triumph.
Despite the strong feelings, both teams are taking a methodical approach to the sequel. Sabres coach Lindy Ruff kept his message succinct.
Game one is complete. We’re on to Game 2, Ruff stated. A lot can happen. We want to improve.
It was pure Ruff: concise no nonsense, and laser-focused on the task at hand. Throughout his second tenure as Sabres’ coach, the 66-year-old has focused on process over outcomes, and Tuesday’s availability was no exception.
While Buffalo is focused on moving past their Sunday triumph, Bruins coach Marco Sturm took a more broad approach with reporters.
The former NHL winger maintained calm and confidence despite a heartbreaking defeat on the road in his first full season as Boston’s coach.
Last game is the final game. Sturm stated that today is a new game. We were quite pleased with our game. We accomplished many great things. We only need to focus on a few things.
Sturm hailed his team’s composure in a hostile setting, noting that the Bruins fought physically against a larger, more aggressive Sabres club. The penalty kill was a highlight for Boston, going flawless 4-for-4 in the series opener. Sturm confirmed that there will be no team changes for Game 2.
Someone commented the other day that the playoffs are a roller coaster. We can’t panic as the ride descends. We simply need to remain cool.
Timmins, who is getting his first taste of the Stanley Cup playoffs in five years, previously played in the post-season with the Colorado Avalanche in 2021. Having grown up a short distance away in St. Catharines, Ontario, playing in the Sabres’ playoff return was a dream come true.
My pals grew up Sabres fans, and I used to attend games with them. I know this town was looking forward to it, Timmins remarked on Tuesday.
The defender distributed his team-allocated tickets to his parents and a few close friends, but many more were in the stands to watch the event.
Trust Me. ‘
On the other side, Fraser Minten made his playoff debut for the Bruins on Sunday.
Despite being part of an inexperienced third line, the team earned Sturm’s considerable confidence. Following each of Buffalo’s goals in that thrilling third quarter, Sturm deployed the line, claiming confidence in their shutdown capability.
Minten said it was comforting that his coach had faith in him.
