In a desperate bid to end their 13-year playoff drought, the Buffalo Sabres are considering a reunion with former head coach Lindy Ruff. Since Ruff's departure in 2013, the Sabres' bench has seen a revolving door of coaches, but fans are now clamoring for the return of the experienced leader.

Ruff, who was recently let go by the New Jersey Devils, has openly acknowledged that he has had to adapt his coaching style to the changing dynamics of the game. No longer can he rely solely on authoritarian directives, as players now respond better to a more collaborative approach. This shift in approach may explain the success Ruff enjoyed during last year's impressive season with the Devils, as he had the guidance of assistant coach Andrew Brunette, who is now serving as an assistant coach for the Nashville Predators.

The Sabres' General Manager, Kevyn Adams, has hinted that a swift decision regarding the head coaching position could be on the horizon. Adams, who was an assistant under Ruff during his final season with the Sabres, is known to have regrets about the manner in which Ruff's firing was handled. The possibility of a Ruff reunion is further fueled by the trend of veteran NHL coaches like Ken Hitchcock and Claude Julien returning for multiple stints with a team.

Ruff, who expressed interest in the Sabres' coaching position back in 2019, now finds himself strongly drawn to the team, particularly due to the impressive performances of young talent Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. However, he is not the only candidate under consideration. Other experienced coaches such as Craig Berube, Gerard Gallant, and Bruce Boudreau are also being mentioned in connection with the vacancy.

The decision to part ways with coach Don Granato was not an easy one for the Sabres' ownership. However, with the weight of the prolonged playoff drought becoming increasingly unbearable, change was deemed necessary. Granato's comfortable approach and the team's lack of success ultimately led to his departure.

As the search for a new head coach intensifies, Adams has made it clear that NHL experience is a crucial factor in his selection. This requirement has dampened speculation about Rochester coach Seth Appert taking over the top spot, but other qualified candidates may still emerge.

In the midst of this coaching upheaval, fans are left wondering about the ownership's perspective. Terry Pegula, the owner of the Sabres, has not addressed the public directly for nearly four years. Adams assures supporters that Pegula remains engaged and committed to the team's success, despite personal matters that have kept him away from the public eye.

As the focus shifts towards the future, all eyes are on Adams and his ability to turn the Sabres' fortunes around. Acknowledging his own responsibility in the team's struggles, Adams vows to step up as a leader and make the necessary changes to bring success back to Buffalo.

The Sabres and their loyal fans eagerly await the decision that could shape the team's trajectory for years to come. With the pressure mounting, the clock is ticking for Adams to find the perfect candidate to lead the Sabres back to the playoffs and restore pride to the franchise.