There's more and more optimism surrounding the Buffalo Sabres as we approach the regular season opener against the New York Rangers. Sneaky Joe DiBiase has his final projections on where the Sabres will finish based on what looks like an improved defensive roster, confidence in Josh Norris and Jiri Kulich, and a massive season from Rasmus Dahlin. However, how worried should we really be about a goalie situation entering the year of Alex Lyon and a guy who's never played in the NHL in Colten Ellis?

Plus, why Joe believes Ottawa is about to have a huge year in the Atlantic Division, but everyone else might take a big step back. A big reason for Sabres optimism is definitely a weaker looking Atlantic, maybe the weakest we've ever seen.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed
Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/lockedonright now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Download the FanDuel app now by visiting FanDuel.com and win $300 in bonus bets if your first $5 bet wins.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)