‘All season, skeptics have waited for the Sabres to find their level. Now, once again, they will attempt to show they have been underestimated, and that they possess a rare competitive character that transcends adversity and doubt. They have responded to every challenge. In doing so, they have shattered the fatalistic attitude of Buffalo fans and given them a genuine feeling of belief – not that the Sabres will win the Cup this year, necessarily, but that a young, special team is bound to win it eventually.’