Sabres' rise not reflected in ratingsSource: Buffalo News ‘According to Nielsen, the ratings are lower than they were in 2009, when Lindy Ruff’s team missed the playoffs.’ Related posts: Sabres’ ratings climb Sabres win was a ratings victory for NBC Hockey ratings poor overall but not in Pittsburgh Sabres rule out C Connolly; LW Vanek set to return Big names don't always spell big success in hockey