Are the Buffalo Sabres Playoff Locks? + Blue Jackets Surge & Nick Schmaltz's Huge Extension

On this Thursday edition, hosts Nick Zararis and Hunter Hodies break down the hottest teams and biggest contracts in the league. First, we dive into the miraculous run of the Buffalo Sabres. Since their recent GM change, the Sabres have rocketed up the standings to sit 5th in the entire NHL. We discuss the impact of head coach Lindy Ruff, Alex Lyon's stellar goaltending, and why Buffalo looks like an absolute lock for the Eastern Conference playoffs. Next, we look at the Columbus Blue Jackets' incredible turnaround. Since bringing Rick Bowness out of retirement to replace Dean Evason, the team has surged back into the playoff hunt with elite defensive play and a Norris-caliber season from Zach Werenski. Finally, we analyze Nick Schmaltz's massive 8-year, $8 million per year extension with the Utah Mammoths. What does this mean for the rising NHL salary cap, upcoming free agents like Alex Tuch, and the summer trade market? 04:59 Sabres Prove They Can Compete 07:40 NHL Standouts: Scoring & Goaltending 10:39 Blue Jackets Bump & Hoops Boost 12:59 "Columbus Playoff Push Analysis" 19:05 Columbus' Playoff Push Analysis 19:47 "Key Games and NHL Updates" 24:52 "Slight Overpay, Smart Bet" 27:03 Vanishing Mid-Tier Athletes Trend 30:20 "March Code: Free First Month" Are the Buffalo Sabres Playoff Locks? + Blue Jackets Surge & Nick Schmaltz's Huge Extension Everydayer ClubJoin the Everydayer Club for ad-free audio, access to our group chat on Discord, and more. Use code DEADLINE ahead of the trade deadline for one month free. Tap here to learn more: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit