MONTREAL – The Buffalo Sabres turned the Atlantic Division semifinals into a best-of-three sprint on Tuesday night, battling back for a 3-2 victory over the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre. By evening the series at two games apiece, Buffalo ensured a pivotal Game 5 return to Western New York with momentum firmly on their side. Birthday Magic and Historic Streaks The night belonged to Zach Benson, who celebrated his 21st birthday by netting the game-winning goal on a third-period power play. Finding a pass from Josh Doan in front of the net, Benson utilized a slick backhand to beat Montreal’s Jakub Dobes, becoming only the second player in franchise history—joining Peter McNab in 1975—to score a postseason goal on his birthday. While Benson provided the finish, Doan continued his torrid playmaking stretch. By assisting on the opening goal and Benson’s winner, Doan extended his assist streak to five consecutive playoff games. He is the first Sabres skater to reach...Read More

The Buffalo Sabres find themselves in unfamiliar territory this postseason as they trail a series for the first time. Facing a 2-1 series deficit against the Montreal Canadiens, Buffalo will look to bounce back in Game 4 at the Bell Centre on Tuesday night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.. Overcoming Adversity Buffalo is no stranger to digging out of holes, having climbed from the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings back in early December to secure the top spot in the Atlantic Division. Head coach Lindy Ruff has emphasized the importance of hitting the reset button, noting that his group has answered questions about adversity all year long and remains highly confident. The locker room mood remains incredibly positive, though the team is well aware they have yet to play their best hockey in this series. Forward Zach Benson pointed out the need to return to a fast, predictable, and highly competitive brand of hockey all over the...Read More