Sabres celebrate playoff berth with late Jeanneret

The Buffalo Sabres clinched a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in 14 years on Saturday, and are celebrating with the beloved broadcaster, Rick Jeanneret.

The late Sabres play-by-play announcer, who passed away in 2023, narrated a social media video for the team, commemorating the Sabres breaking their postseason drought.

Jeanneret’s narration — a letter to Sabres players and fans — was recorded in 2021, before his death.

“This thing of ours is in your hands now,” Jeanneret said in the video. “Many have worn that crest before you. They fought for it. Led for it. Around here, that symbol is a way of life.”

He continued, “The men in this arena play for more than glory. They play for those who wait for winter. For those attending for the first time, and for those who have made that cold march down Washington [St.] time and time again.

“And if you earn it, they’ll stand alongside you. On bad days, and better days. So, dare greatly. Fight for it. This thing of ours is forever.”

Jeanneret spent 51 years as the voice of the Sabres and is beloved by fans across Buffalo. He began his career with the Sabres in the 1971-72 season (just the team’s second year in existence) and retired after the 2021-22 season.

Before Saturday, the Sabres last qualified for the postseason in 2011.