The much-anticipated second-round matchup between the Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens promised fireworks, and the home team wasted absolutely no time lighting the fuse. Riding a wave of momentum from their series-clinching victory over Boston, Buffalo came out of the gate with incredible pace. The Sabres capitalized on early opportunities, leaned on a remarkably efficient power play, and rode a 26-save performance from Alex Lyon to secure a 4-2 victory in Game 1 on Wednesday night at KeyBank Center. The win gives Buffalo an immediate 1-0 advantage in the best-of-seven series, answering the bell after a lengthy layoff while taking advantage of a Montreal squad fresh off a grueling seven-game battle with Tampa Bay. The Kids Are Alright If there were any concerns about rust following a five-day break, Zach Benson and Josh Doan immediately put them to rest. The young duo continued exactly where they left off in the opening round, creating absolute chaos for the Montreal defense from...Read More

Buffalo hockey fans are finally catching their breath. The opening round of the postseason delivered a chaotic and thrilling ride. We witnessed a massive home comeback, a dominant road victory, and some incredibly tense moments. Now, the page turns to the second round. The Buffalo Sabres host the Montreal Canadiens tonight at KeyBank Center. This matchup renews a historic division rivalry that traces all the way back to 1973. Both squads arrive fully loaded and highly confident after eliminating perennial Atlantic Division powerhouses. A Dramatic Shift in Playing Style Fans should expect a completely different type of hockey series. Boston wanted to slow the game down. They tried to congest the neutral zone and drag Buffalo into a grinding, physical battle. Montreal plays a vastly different brand of hockey. The Canadiens thrive on pure speed and quick transitions. They finished the regular season seventh in the NHL for rush goals. Buffalo, however, led the entire league in that exact same...Read More