Final Score: Ducks 3 | Sabres 2
Shots on Goal: Sabres 33 | Ducks 28
Sabres Goal Scorers: Johan Larsson (5), Rasmus Dahlin (4)
Ducks Goal Scorers: Jakob Silfverberg (17), Ryan Getzlaf (12), Nick Ritchie (6)
Plus 1: Late Life
It was a very rough start to the Sunday matinee against the Anaheim Ducks. Twelve minutes into the game and Buffalo found themselves down 3-0.
If we can take a silver lining from this game, we can see that Buffalo drastically outplayed Anaheim after those three goals were scored.
As the game progressed, Buffalo’s pressure increased.
Unfortunately, the pressure late in the third period was not enough and Buffalo fell short.
Plus 2: Bouncing Back
One might think this could be a minus because of the early play of Jonas Johansson – he did not look strong early on.
Many have pointed out how Johansson has been able to play well due to a well-oiled defensive machine down in Rochester.
In Buffalo, that well-oiled machine might as well be broken down.
Johansson was able to regain his bearings after a penalty shot late in the first.
Jonas Johansson penalty shot save #Sabres50 #LetsGoDucks pic.twitter.com/z2ZCAC4ZGY
— Buffalo Hockey moments (@SabresPlays) February 9, 2020
Today was the 24-year old’s second career National Hockey League start, things certainly will improve from here.
You certainly just hate to see the goaltender look so out of place and lost at points throughout the game.
Plus 3: Miller Time
It always feels like home when I’m in Buffalo. Thanks for the love. I have some serious FOMO about missing my buddies next week for 2000s night. Great memories.
— Ryan Miller (@RyanMiller3039) February 9, 2020
We stan our king.
Ryan Miller continues to be the absolute greatest. Not to worry for Miller, he will get his night when the franchise ultimately retires his number.
Final Thoughts
Another disappointing loss for the Buffalo Sabres in a season-long slate of disappointing losses.
Buffalo had an opportunity to gain a few points in their quest for the playoffs but instead continue to fall back even further.
If the Sabres end up missing the playoffs, it will be games like Sunday afternoon’s that end up being those must-wins that were ultimately missed.