Essentially, the season comes down to this game. Win in regulation and the team is a point behind the Montreal Canadiens for sixth place and four points behind the Hurricanes. Lose in regulation, and the team is possibly looking out of the playoffs. 

The Hurricanes have been unbeatable for the Sabres in the past two games. The Hurricanes won 3-2 in overtime and shutout the Sabres 1-0 in their last matchup. The main reason for that is Cam Ward. Ward is 2-1 against the Sabres this season with a 1.69 goals against average and .952 save percentage. Ward is 6-6-1 with a 2.91 goals against average and two shutouts in his career against the Sabres. 

More news and notes after the jump

- These two teams are about as evenly matched up as they can be. The Sabres score 2.88 goals/game, the Hurricanes score 2.81 goals/game. The Sabres allow 2.80 goals/game, the Hurricanes allow 2.88 goals/game. 

- The Hurricanes could win their seventh season series with a win tonight. It would be their seventh win in 30 season series and the first since the lockout. 

- The Sabres are 3-1-2 on a Sunday, the only regulation loss came against the Washington Capitals. 

- Thomas Vanek is 11 goals behind Alexander Mogilny for 10th on the Sabres all-time goal scoring list 

Game time is 5:00 pm and can be seen on MSG and NHL Network Canada