Get ready for a showdown that’s more than just a game—it’s a reunion, a rivalry, and a reckoning. Former teammates turned opponents, Josh Doan and Michael Kesselring, are set to face their old squad for the first time at KeyBank Center, and emotions are running high. But here’s where it gets controversial: while both players insist it’s not personal, Kesselring admits, ‘I’m very excited to play them.’ So, is it all friendly competition, or is there more to this story? Let’s dive in.
By Justin Alpert
Sabres.com
November 04, 2025
The Buffalo Sabres are gearing up for a highly anticipated matchup against the Utah Mammoth on Tuesday, but this isn’t your average game. For Kesselring and Doan, both former Arizona draft picks and inaugural members of the Utah team, this is a chance to prove their worth against the squad they once called family. Now key players for the 2025-26 Sabres, they’re ready to show why Buffalo bet big on them.
Kesselring, who returned from a preseason injury just in time for this game, hasn’t held back his enthusiasm. ‘I watch a bunch of [Utah’s] games. I still text a few of those guys all the time—really close, lifelong friends,’ he shared. ‘I wish them the best, but not when we play them.’ And this is the part most people miss: while the friendship is real, the competitive fire burns brighter.
In his first three games with the Sabres, Kesselring has showcased the skills Buffalo coveted when they traded for him. Paired primarily with Bowen Byram, the right-shot defenseman has averaged 17:05 of ice time, delivering quick zone breakouts as both a passer and skater. The points haven’t come yet, but his 12 shot attempts (four on net) hint at what’s to come.
Doan, meanwhile, has been a standout performer in the Sabres’ 5-4-3 start. With nine points (4 goals, 5 assists), he’s tied for third on the team and is already closing in on his career-high 19 points from last season. His role on the second line with Ryan McLeod and Alex Tuch, along with his spot on the top power-play unit, has solidified his impact. ‘I’ve been given a role here to compete and have fun and be part of a change,’ Doan said. ‘Seeing what we’ve done early on is exciting.’
But here’s the kicker: Doan’s success isn’t just about stats. His forechecking, net-front presence, and all-around effort have made him a fan favorite—a far cry from his lesser role in Utah. ‘You’ve got to battle as a group,’ he added, echoing the team’s mantra. ‘That one point is going to make a difference right now.’
The Sabres have been on a roll, earning a .722 points percentage (5-1-3) in their last nine games. Meanwhile, the Mammoth have sprinted out of the gates with an 8-4-0 record. As the puck drops at 7 p.m., here’s what you need to know:
Lineup Notes (updated 11:05 a.m.)
The Sabres have made some adjustments due to injuries and health concerns. Jason Zucker (illness) has been placed on injured reserve, and Jiri Kulich (non-injury health issue) is unavailable for Tuesday’s game. In response, the team recalled Noah Ostlund from Rochester. Alex Lyon is expected to start in net, as seen during Tuesday’s optional morning skate. Check back at 6:30 p.m. for the projected lineup during warmups.
Standings Check
Four weeks into the season, the Eastern Conference remains tightly contested, with every team boasting a points percentage above .500. The Sabres (13 points) are tied for last despite earning points in eight of their last nine games. Yet, they’re just five points behind division leaders Montreal and Detroit. ‘All we can worry about is getting our points,’ coach Ruff emphasized. ‘When we get opportunities to play those teams, we know they’re going to be big games.’
Scouting the Mammoth
Utah’s recent two-game skid against Edmonton and Tampa Bay snapped a seven-game winning streak, but they remain a force to be reckoned with. JJ Peterka, now with the Mammoth, has 10 points (4+6) and a plus-six rating in his first season away from Buffalo. His line, featuring Logan Cooley (8+4) and Dylan Guenther (5+7), has been one of the NHL’s most dynamic, driving Utah’s rush-oriented offense.
‘Their top six is so competitive,’ Doan noted. ‘Those guys might not be the biggest, but they battle hard. You’re in for a dogfight when you play them.’ The Sabres’ strategy? ‘Not allowing them to create offense off our mistakes and making them come through us.’
In net, Karel Vejmelka has a 6-3-0 record with an .890 save percentage and 2.79 GAA. Backup Vitek Vanecek, however, has been solid, allowing just two goals in each of his three starts. His career success against the Sabres (12-2-1, .922 save percentage, 2.18 GAA in 15 appearances) adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Controversial Question for You: Is this game truly just another matchup, or does the history between these players and teams add an undeniable edge? Share your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you!
