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Sabres vs Blackhawks coverage centers on two teams looking for a response when Buffalo visits Chicago on November 12, 2026. The game is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, with broadcasts listed on CHSN and MSG-B. Buffalo enters at 8-7-3, while Chicago is 4-13-1.
Critical Sabres vs Blackhawks Projected Lineups
The Sabres are coming off an 8-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Wednesday. Despite not holding a morning skate before the game, Buffalo’s projected lineup features a blend of established scoring, young talent and physical depth.
- Forwards: Peyton Krebs, Josh Norris, Tage Thompson; Zach Benson, Noah Ostlund, Jack Quinn; Jason Zucker, Ryan McLeod, Josh Doan; Beck Malenstyn, Tyson Kozak, Sam Carrick.
- Defense: Rasmus Dahlin, Mattias Samuelsson; Olen Zellweger, Owen Power; Conor Timmins, Louis Crevier.
- Goaltenders: Colten Ellis and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.
Tage Thompson remains a major offensive focal point for Buffalo, with Josh Norris and Peyton Krebs projected alongside him on the top line. Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power headline a defensive group expected to carry significant responsibility against Chicago’s young attack.
Louis Crevier could be one of the more interesting names in the Buffalo lineup. The defenseman may face his former team after being a healthy scratch for three consecutive games.
Explosive Blackhawks Attack Led by Connor Bedard
Chicago held an optional morning skate ahead of the matchup. The Blackhawks’ projected lineup is led by Connor Bedard, who is expected to center Roman Kantserov and Tyler Bertuzzi on the opening line.
- Forwards: Roman Kantserov, Connor Bedard, Tyler Bertuzzi; Andrew Mangiapane, Anton Frondell, Teuvo Teravainen; Oliver Moore, Frank Nazar, Ryan Donato; Cole Smith, Ryan Greene, Jordan Greenway.
- Defense: Alex Vlasic, Ian Cole; Ethan Del Mastro, Artyom Levshunov; Wyat Kaiser, Sam Rinzel.
- Goaltenders: Spencer Knight and Drew Commesso.
Bedard’s presence gives Chicago a dynamic playmaking threat at the top of the lineup. The Blackhawks will also rely on experienced forwards such as Tyler Bertuzzi, Teuvo Teravainen and Ryan Donato to support a group that has struggled to find consistency early in the season.
Spencer Knight is projected to start in goal, with Drew Commesso listed as the backup. Commesso was recalled from Rockford of the American Hockey League on Sunday after Chicago waived goaltender Arvid Soderblom and assigned him to Rockford.
Important Injury and Status Updates
Both teams have notable names listed on the injury report. Buffalo’s injured players include Konsta Helenius and Justin Danforth, both with upper-body injuries, along with Matt Grzelcyk, who is dealing with a lower-body injury. Goaltender Alex Lyon is also listed with an upper-body injury.
The status report noted that Lyon could join the Sabres during their six-game road trip, which begins in Chicago. His availability could become an important storyline as Buffalo manages its goaltending depth away from home.
Chicago will be without Bowen Byram, who is listed with an upper-body injury. Patrick Kane is also listed with an upper-body injury after missing three games, but Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill described Kane as “hopeful to probable” to return.
Kane’s potential return would provide Chicago with an experienced offensive option and add extra intrigue to the matchup. His final status remains one of the key developments to monitor before puck drop.
What to Watch When Buffalo Visits Chicago
The Sabres will be eager to respond after allowing eight goals against Tampa Bay. Their defensive structure and goaltending will be under pressure against Bedard and a Blackhawks team hoping to build momentum at home.
Chicago, meanwhile, will look to capitalize on Buffalo’s recent setback while taking advantage of home ice. The projected lineups suggest a contest shaped by top-line production, special teams and the availability of Kane and Lyon.
As with all projected lineups, changes can be made before warmups. Final starting goaltenders and any late lineup adjustments should be confirmed closer to game time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Sabres vs Blackhawks game?
The game is scheduled for November 12, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET.
Where will the Sabres vs Blackhawks game be played?
Buffalo is visiting Chicago, with the Blackhawks serving as the home team.
Who is projected to start in goal for Buffalo?
Colten Ellis and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen are listed as Buffalo’s projected goaltenders. The official starter should be confirmed before puck drop.
Is Patrick Kane expected to play?
Kane is listed with an upper-body injury after missing three games. Coach Jeff Blashill described him as “hopeful to probable” to return.
Which players are leading the projected lineups?
Connor Bedard is projected to center Chicago’s top line, while Tage Thompson is expected to lead Buffalo’s first forward unit.
