New York Jets stand alone in professional sports futility

The Buffalo Sabres clinching a playoff spot on Saturday was significant as it ended the longest playoff drought in NHL history. It was also significant for a team (the New York Jets) in a completely different sport for what it means to their own playoff futility. 

New York Jets stand alone in current pro sports futility 

The Sabres' 14-year playoff drought was not only the longest playoff drought in NHL history, had it extended this season, it would have put them at 15 consecutive years without a playoff berth and kept them in a tie with the NFL's New York Jets for the longest active playoff drought across the four major North American men's sports leagues.

With the Sabres' drought now over, that leaves the Jets standing alone.

Given the way the offseason has gone so far, and with the major question marks at quarterback, it seems unlikely that the Jets will snap their drought this season. 

With the Sabres in the playoffs, the longest postseason drought in the NHL now belongs to the Detroit Red Wings at nine seasons. That drought is also in danger of reaching 10 seasons if they do not quality this season, and they missed a big opportunity to gain some ground on Saturday.

The longest drought in Major League Baseball belongs to the Los Angeles Angels, who are now at 11 consecutive seasons. 

In the NBA, it is the Charlotte Hornets at nine consecutive seasons.