Sabres chase franchise history as three stars head to 2026 Olympics
The Buffalo Sabres are celebrating a historic winning streak while three of their players prepare for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Tage Thompson, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, and Rasmus Dahlin will each represent their countries in Milano-Cortina, bringing top-tier talent to the international stage. Meanwhile, the team eyes a franchise-record 11th consecutive victory this weekend.
Tage Thompson, currently the Sabres’ top scorer with 20 goals and 37 points, secured his place on Team USA’s Olympic roster. Though left off the 2022 4 Nations Face-Off team, he helped the U.S. win gold at the IIHF World Championship with a decisive overtime goal. His consistent performance this season cemented his selection for 2026.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Finland’s key goaltender for the upcoming Olympics, has been in outstanding form. During the Sabres’ recent winning streak, he recorded a .962 save percentage across three starts, earning his spot alongside NHL veterans Kevin Lankinen and Juuse Saros. Coach Lindy Ruff called the trio’s Olympic selection a 'once-in-a-lifetime opportunity' to compete for gold.
Rasmus Dahlin will represent Sweden in Milano-Cortina, adding to his Olympic experience after becoming the youngest player in the 2018 PyeongChang tournament at just 17. His leadership and skill make him a vital part of Sweden’s defence.
Back in Buffalo, the Sabres face a minor setback with Michael Kesselring sidelined by a lower-body injury. Jacob Bryson stepped in during Friday’s practice, ensuring the team remains prepared. Their focus now shifts to Saturday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, where a win would set a new franchise record of 11 straight victories.
The Sabres’ Olympic-bound players—Thompson, Luukkonen, and Dahlin—will bring their recent success to the international stage in 2026. Meanwhile, the team chases history with a potential 11-game winning streak against Columbus. Both achievements highlight the club’s strength at home and abroad.
