Buffalo Sabres vs. New Jersey Devils Preview: A Battle on Ice
Tonight, the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, sets the stage for a clash between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils. With Buffalo sitting at 32-19-6 and holding 70 points, they're currently 4th in the Atlantic Division. Meanwhile, the Devils are at 28-27-2 with 58 points, putting them 7th in the Metropolitan Division.
Special Teams Showdown
When it comes to special teams, Buffalo's power play is clicking at 20.1%, ranking them 16th in the league. Their penalty kill is even more impressive at 82.5%, placing them 7th.
New Jersey's power play edges out slightly better at 20.8% (15th), but their penalty kill lags at 79.0% (19th). These stats could play a pivotal role in tonight’s matchup.
Key Players to Watch
For Buffalo, Tage Thompson is a force with 29 goals and 30 assists over 57 games. Alex Tuch and Rasmus Dahlin are also making significant contributions, both with 48 points.
Dahlin, in particular, is on fire, recording 19 points in his last 14 games. A point tonight would extend his point streak to match his career best.
On the Devils' side, Nico Hischier leads the charge with 42 points, supported by Jesper Bratt and Jack Hughes, who are also key offensive players. Hughes, despite playing fewer games, has managed an impressive 36 points.
Between the Pipes
Projected to start in goal, Buffalo's Alex Lyon sports a 14-8-3 record with a 2.72 GAA and a .913 save percentage. For New Jersey, Jacob Markstrom is expected to defend the net, holding a 15-13-1 record with a 3.20 GAA and an .882 save percentage. The goaltending duel could be crucial in determining the game's outcome.
Sabres on a Roll
Buffalo is riding a wave of momentum, having secured at least one point in seven of their last nine games. Their road performance has been particularly strong, with a chance to extend their road point streak to seven games tonight. The Sabres have also been lethal on the power play, scoring in six consecutive games.
Players Heating Up
Several Sabres are hitting their stride. Jack Quinn has tallied 15 points in his last 15 games, while Ryan McLeod has notched 19 points in 17 games, showcasing their offensive prowess. Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch are also in top form, with Thompson amassing 38 points in his last 32 games.
Injury Report
The Sabres are dealing with some injuries, including Justin Danforth, Jiri Kulich, and Conor Timmins, who are on injured reserve. Zach Benson is day-to-day with an upper-body injury.
As the Sabres take on the Devils, fans can expect a thrilling contest with plenty of offensive fireworks and strategic play. With both teams looking to make a statement, this matchup promises to be one to watch.