Lindy Ruff’s success in ending the Buffalo Sabres’ 14-year playoff drought while securing a division title and franchise-best win totals has driven overwhelming trader consensus for his Jack Adams Award candidacy. The Sabres posted top-five rankings in regulation wins, road victories, goal differential, and penalty-kill efficiency under Ruff’s second stint, reflecting a clear culture shift and consistent results that outpace the resumes of finalists Jon Cooper and Dan Muse. Historical precedent also favors repeat winners in turnaround seasons. Late voting shifts remain possible if Tampa Bay’s balanced attack or Pittsburgh’s defensive structure receives stronger broadcaster support, though Ruff’s tangible impact on Buffalo’s resurgence leaves limited room for such an upset.