The Buffalo Sabres answer to the Washington Capitals.

Even though the Sabres are staring at their 13th straight season without the playoffs, one bright side was on display last night.  They defeated the Washington Capitals 4-2 in their last home game of the season. Over the last two seasons, Buffalo has won four out of six games against Washington. The two losses they were able to get a point in each losing in a shootout last season and overtime this season.

In those six games the Sabres have outscored the Capitals 29-21. This includes the last two wins this season. They won 6-2 on April 2nd with multiple point performances by Alex Tuch JJ Peterka, and Rasmus Dahlin. Last night they won 4-2 led by Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen who stopped 22 saves during the game. They also had eight takeaways in the game.

Last season the Capitals made the postseason losing in the first round to the Florida Panthers. This season, the Capitals are fighting for a playoff spot once again. Although the Sabres were eliminated on Monday in a loss to Detroit, their win last night put a damper on the Capitals playoff hopes. The loss last night dropped the Capitals out the final playoff spot with only two games to go. 

Washington has been one of the perennial Stanley Cup contenders over the last several years. They won it all during the 2017/2018 season. The Sabres performance against a strong Stanley Cup contender could be something to look forward to entering the offseason.

Right winger Alex Tuch has especially performed well against the Capitals this season. He has eight blocked shots, two goals and one assist. His performance in games against Stanley Cup performers could be a key to them breaking their playoff drought. 

The Sabres close out their season against playoff teams the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning. Finishing out strong against three playoff and Stanley Cup contenders will be a huge step for the team as the offseason kicks off.