# @theathletichq on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DVpdelPEoJ7
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/58855645-theathletichq-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/cdf792be0e.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-03-09T03:01:47.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** The Athletic (@theathletichq) — https://gondola.cc/theathletichq

## Caption

Fifteen goals. Seven fights. 28 penalties, 102 penalty minutes.

Was Sabres-Lightning the NHL’s game of the year?

Given the stakes and the events that unfolded, there’s a strong case to be made.

Both teams came into Sunday’s matchup tied for first place in the Atlantic Division. Considering the Sabres haven’t been to the playoffs since 2011, there’s a strong case that this was the biggest game in Buffalo in more than a decade.

The emotions matched the moment. As did the narrative arc of the game, which ended with the Sabres winning 8-7 after they led 4-1 and trailed 7-5.

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 2,028
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 8

## Credits

| Name | Username | Profile | Role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| The Athletic | @theathletichq | https://gondola.cc/theathletichq | Sports Media Outlet |
| Ray Bahner | @picbyray | https://gondola.cc/picbyray | Photo Editor |

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