Before the Buffalo Sabres hit the ice for the first game of the 2022-23 season, fans will be able to greet the team during a special Party in the Plaza. 

Starting at 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 13, Buffalo's opening night lineup will arrive in cars provided by Northtown Auto and walk a Blue & Gold Carpet on their way into KeyBank Center. 

Fans can enjoy music from The Strictly Hip, hockey activations and photo opportunities, and meet Sabres alumni. There will also be activities for kids in Alumni Plaza. 

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the first 12,000 fans attending the game will receive a City of Buffalo-themed Sabres flag. 

Faceoff against the Ottawa Senators is set for 7 p.m. Tickets for the game are on sale now starting at $27.

That night's 50/50 Raffle will have a guaranteed jackpot of $50,000. New this season, Sabres fans throughout New York State can purchase tickets to Sabres 50/50 raffles online for each home game. 

Fans who attend Sabres home games can purchase 50/50 tickets from volunteer sellers throughout the arena or online from their mobile device. Click here to purchase 50/50 tickets online.

In addition to team introductions before opening faceoff, the Sabres will honor the victims of the racially motivated mass shooting on May 14, recognize their families and the highlight the community's ongoing response.

For fans watching at home, the Sabres Game Night pregame show on MSG will carry the ceremony live in its entirety. Dan Dunleavy and Rob Ray will then call the action on MSG and WGR 550.

Opening weekend festivities will continue on Saturday, October 15 when Buffalo hosts the Florida Panthers . Fans can partake in Hocktoberfest, a fall-themed Party in the Plaza, starting at 11 a.m. Faceoff is at 1 p.m. The first 10,000 fans at the game will receive a magnet schedule.

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