‘It would be weak of me to waffle only 16 games into the season, so yes, I’ll stick to my prediction the Sabres will secure a wild-card spot. The odds are stacked against them, though. Missing Thompson for 15-20 games is a massive blow to their playoff chances. This team already was struggling to replicate the fast-paced, aggressive style of play that made it one of the NHL’s best offensively last season. Casey Mittelstadt and Dylan Cozens are talented enough to stabilize the top-six lines in Thompson’s absence, but it is difficult to envision the power play returning to form without Thompson. Depth is a glaring issue with the Sabres missing Thompson and winger Jack Quinn, who might be out several more weeks.’