Buffalo Sabres face new turbulence in NHL season
The Buffalo Sabres are on unstable footing as they begin a crucial four-game road trip that may reshape their 2025–26 season. The team’s performance so far has been inconsistent, raising questions about its long-term direction.
Jeremy White and the echoes of the past
WGR 550 radio host Jeremy White, known for his outspoken stance during the infamous 2015 “McEichel” sweepstakes, is once again stirring debate among Sabres fans. A decade ago, he was one of the main voices supporting Buffalo’s deliberate losing strategy to secure top draft talent such as Connor McDavid or Jack Eichel.
Now, White hints at a similar narrative, suggesting that the team’s struggles could prompt another round of rethinking. His tongue-in-cheek proposal has been dubbed “Operation Gavin McKenna,” referencing the star forward from Penn State projected to be the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
“Whispers — A bad road trip from the hockey team and it might time to talk about Totally Another Needed Kleaningofhouse.”
White shared this cryptic line on Twitter/X shortly before the Sabres announced that Rasmus Dahlin would take a leave of absence for family reasons. The highlighted phrase cleverly spells out “TANK,” a callback to the team’s previous rebuilding era.
Sabres sink in standings
Buffalo currently sits at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a 5–5–4 record, totaling 14 points. After a brief burst of strong play, they have now dropped five of their last six games following a rough 0–3–0 start to the season. The tension surrounding the club feels familiar, with fans wondering if history might be repeating itself.
Key facts
- The team began the 2025–26 season with an 0–3–0 record.
- They have lost five of their last six games.
- Jeremy White references “Operation Gavin McKenna,” drawing a parallel to past tanking efforts.
- Rasmus Dahlin is temporarily away due to family matters.
Author’s Summary: Buffalo’s rocky start and renewed whispers of “Operation McKenna” have reignited old debates about rebuilding and the team’s uncertain future.