‘There is an odd passion about the Sabres that is different from anything else here, even the Bills. Maybe it’s because we can still share a Sabres game in person with our children and not worry about how many drunken brawls they will witness. Maybe it’s because, by comparison, the Sabres have been so close so recently, making the playoffs nine out of the last 14 seasons. And unlike a football postseason, which can be over three hours after the first playoff game starts, it can take almost two weeks for a hockey team to be eliminated or advance.’