The Buffalo Sabres lost in a 5-0 debacle against the Tampa Bay Lightning and have since dropped three-straight games to Atlantic Division opponents.
Despite the meltdown, the Buffalo Sabres showed some improvement. Yeah, it’s always ugly to see the team lose in blowout fashion. And yes, they failed a major test, given a string of struggles the Lightning have recently suffered.
But let’s focus on the positive: It was the first time the Sabres lost by five goals in nearly a month.
That alone says something. Losses like these are becoming outliers for a team that has played upper-echelon NHL teams well. And honestly, it doesn’t matter if the Sabres evolve into the best team in the NHL. They’re going to have games like this, where despite some good things happening, the final score will indicate otherwise.
The Buffalo Sabres fail a major test while showing improvement
This Sabres team was far more physical than what we’ve seen lately, especially in their two contests against the Carolina Hurricanes. In both games, the ‘Canes bowled over them time and again, despite the Sabres stealing one last week.
They also finished with 28 shots on goal. In previous games, the Sabres struggled in this category. And worse, they enjoyed a higher shooting percentage against both the Panthers and the Hurricanes. It didn’t happen today, but at least the Sabres gave themselves opportunities.
However, Tampa crushed them in the takeaway department, 13-5. So puck security is still an issue for the Sabres. And as it has haunted them recently, Tampa won 60% of the face-offs and it was a major contributor in the difference of this game.
Overall, despite the score, the Sabres at least looked as though they were getting their act together. Yeah, it was tough to watch, but it was great to see the physicality and shot attempts on display.
Now, the Owen Power watch has begun. And his presence will give the Sabres faithful a reason to tune in during the season’s final lap.
(Statistics provided by NHL.com)