‘Eichel’s ascent to the upper echelon of NHL stardom masks the Sabres’ blemishes to snap a six-year playoff drought, following McDavid’s handywork for the Oilers one year prior. Eichel’s development aids Rasmus Ristolainen and Sam Reinhart, who also make inroads. Evander Kane stays healthy and out of trouble in a productive contract year. Under the watch of their Hall of Fame defenseman turned coach, wild-card blueline additions Nathan Beaulieu and Victor Antipin exceed expectations, helping to plug Buffalo’s porous defense and improve on a league-worst 34.3 shots against per game. Robin Lehner reaps the rewards in net.’