SPORTS

Sabres defeat Bruins, advance to NHL second round

PUBLISHED May 1, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Left 9%

Center 91%

Sources: 11

Boston — The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Boston Bruins 4-1 at TD Garden on Friday in Game 6, clinching the series 4-2 and advancing to the second round of the NHL playoffs. Alex Tuch and Mattias Samuelsson scored in the first period, Zach Benson added another early in the third, and Josh Norris finished the scoring with an empty-net goal. Boston’s lone goal came from David Pastrnak and Jeremy Swayman made 22 saves as the Bruins were eliminated following a season in which they reached 100 regular-season points. Tempers flared late with a Benson–McAvoy incident at 1:31 remaining; Buffalo will face the winner of the Montreal-Tampa Bay series in the next round next week.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2007 — Buffalo last reached the NHL second round.
2025-26 regular season — Bruins compiled 100 points; Sabres won Atlantic Division.
Prior Tuesday — Bruins staved off elimination with a Game 5 win in Buffalo.
Friday night — Sabres defeated Bruins 4-1 in Game 6 at TD Garden to clinch series 4-2.
Post-Game 6 — Sabres advance to face the winner of the Montreal-Tampa Bay series.

News Intelligence

The Sabres' win is a big deal for hockey fans. It's their first time in the NHL second round since
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If you're a Bruins fan, it's a tough loss after a strong season. For those who enjoy the drama, the Benson-McAvoy incident adds a spicy twist.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10

Who Benefited

The Buffalo Sabres organization benefited most immediately, advancing to the second round, gaining playoff momentum, regional media attention, and organizational validation after breaking their long second-round drought.

Who Impacted

The Boston Bruins, their players, coaching staff and local fanbase suffered elimination, prompting likely organizational review of roster construction, coaching strategies and playoff preparedness.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 9%, Center 91%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

The Boston Bruins, their players, coaching staff and local fanbase suffered elimination, prompting likely organizational review of roster construction, coaching strategies and playoff preparedness.