Early-season Frustration is reaching a boiling point for Boston Bruins' division foe
We are a full week into the 2025-26 NHL season, and there have been some surprises across the league and some disappointments. One surprise team is the Boston Bruins, who are 3-1-0 after a 4-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Monday afternoon at TD Garden.
Before that setback, the Bruins had opened the season with wins over the Washington Capitals, Buffalo Sabres, and Chicago Blackhawks. One of the teams he Black and Gold beat, the Sabres, is three games into their season, and frustration is already growing after a 0-3-0 start.
Frustration growing with Sabres and their fans
After being shut out by the New York Rangers in their season opener, the Sabres lost 3-1 at Boston on Saturday night. They scored their first goal of the season in the third period off a Bruins turnover and a shot that deflected off of Boston defenseman Andrew Peeke and by Jeremy Swayman.
On Monday afternoon, they lost 3-1 again, this time to the Colorado Avalanche. Buffalo has been outscored 10-2 to begin the season, and frustration was evident as the game was ending, with fans booing and calling for Kevyn Adams to be fired. In the locker room following the game, star forward Tage Thompson called for patience.
“We're three games into the season, so it's not over by any means,” said Thompson. “… You guys are acting like the world is ending right now."
No, the world isn't ending, but fans are growing frustrated, and it's likely spreading through the locker room as well.
"We have a long season to go," Thompson said. "You guys are acting like the world is ending right now. We just have to find a way to claw ourselves out of this. We’re obviously in a hole we don’t want to be in and we have to find our way out of it.”
The Sabres will host the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday night and then host the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers on Saturday afternoon. They return to the TD Garden to face the Bruins on Oct. 30. Who knows where each team will be at that point?
Za'Darius Smith Announces Sudden Retirement at 33 After Joining Eagles, Leaving Behind a Stellar Career
In an unexpected move, veteran defensive end Za'Darius Smith has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 33, just one month after joining the Philadelphia Eagles. Smith’s decision to step away from the game comes as a shock to many, especially after a career that saw him achieve impressive feats, including 70.5 sacks and three Pro Bowl selections.
“I’ve had an amazing career, and I’m grateful for every moment I’ve spent on the field,” Smith said in his retirement statement. “But after reflecting on everything, I feel it’s time to step away. It’s been a great ride, and I’m ready for the next chapter.”
Smith's decision marks the end of a distinguished career that spanned multiple seasons with standout performances for both the Baltimore Ravens and the Green Bay Packers before his brief stint with the Eagles. Known for his relentless pass-rushing ability and leadership, Smith made an indelible mark on the league, earning recognition as one of the most dominant defensive players of his era.
“Za’Darius has been a leader both on and off the field,” said Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni. “His work ethic, dedication, and passion for the game will be missed. We respect his decision, and we wish him nothing but the best moving forward.”
During his career, Smith became known for his consistency and impact in key moments. His three Pro Bowl selections reflect his status as one of the NFL’s premier defensive players, and his 70.5 career sacks underscore his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
“I’ve had some amazing teammates and coaches along the way, and I’m proud of everything we accomplished together,” Smith continued. “But now it’s time for me to focus on other things in life. I’m excited about what’s ahead.”
Smith’s decision to retire at the peak of his career will leave a lasting legacy, and fans will remember him as one of the fiercest defenders to ever take the field. The Eagles, while losing a talented player, are supportive of his decision, and the NFL community as a whole will surely miss his dynamic presence on the field.
