I was 9 years old in 1973, growing up in small town Saskatchewan. I was already a dedicated Hab-hater, so when the Sabres made the playoffs for the first time I was cheering for them to knock of the favoured Canadiens. They didn't, but it was an exciting series, very impressionable on my young self. So they became my team, and I haven't wavered since. It was very common for Sask folks to cheer for a variety of team as we didn't have our own team, we were where NHL players came from 😉
The Sabres of course had exciting and successful teams in those early 70's years, and there were many dedicated Sabres and Flyers fans that came about from both teams mid-70's successes.
My only Sabre jersey is my beloved #7 Martin.
edit - I just realized this will be my 50th year cheering for the boys in blue and gold. Jeezus I'm getting up there