There's no denying the Sabres improved from the previous two years, which ended after 82 games. A division championship should be celebrated for its rarity, with only six coming in 39 seasons.
Two things seem destined to tarnish the legacy of this season, however. The first was the distance between the fans and their team. The second is the postseason itself.
"I will just say that this season was a tremendous step forward in the regular season, and it was a kick in the backside and a step backward in the playoffs," coach Lindy Ruff said.
There were highlights, however. Take your pick as to which sticks out most.
---John Vogl
