The Buffalo Sabres are making their first playoff appearance since 2011 and are looking to advance past the second round for the first time since 2007. They face off against the Montreal Canadiens in a highly anticipated series.
As of early Tuesday, Sam Carrick could practice after recovering from a left arm injury. Coach Lindy Ruff stated, “(He’s) going to see our doctors today and thinks he’s further along than maybe I portrayed yesterday.” However, Carrick will not play in this series.
The teams split their season series 2-2, with a combined score of 13-13. Buffalo’s goals against average stands at 2.0 goals per game, while Montreal’s is slightly higher at 2.1 goals per game.
In the first round against Boston, Buffalo managed one power-play goal. In contrast, Montreal scored three power-play goals in their series against Tampa Bay.
Buffalo has not made a Conference Finals since 2007. Their last playoff appearance was over a decade ago in 2011.
The Sabres have shown promise with solid goaltending from Alex Lyon, winning three out of four games with him in net during the first round. If they maintain this level of performance, they could have an edge.
Young stars like Tage Thompson and Rasmus Dahlin will play crucial roles as they attempt to establish a rivalry with Montreal—one that hasn’t seen playoff action since the late ’90s.
Fans are eager for this matchup. Rasmus Dahlin remarked, “I really, really appreciate the fans that came out, but I don’t want to see that many red in the future.” This indicates a strong desire for home-ice advantage.
The series begins soon, and both teams are ready to battle for a chance at the Stanley Cup. The outcome could reshape perceptions of these two rising teams in the Atlantic Division.