Shots: NJD 23 | BUF 42
Buffalo Sabres Goals:
Maybe Next Time
New Jersey Devils Goals:
- Hischier (Meier)
- Gritsyuk (Palat, Mercer)
- Dillon (Brown, Cotter)
- Cotter (Dillon)
- Gritsyuk (Palat)
Minus 1: Close but no Cigar
The Sabres generated a ton of shots and offensive opportunities. However, they were not able to bury their chances. The Devils cashed in on what seemed like every quality scoring chance they had. Buffalo tried everything and could not solve Jake Allen. As the game went on, the Sabres focused on creating havoc in front of him but couldn’t cash in. The effort was there, but the execution was lacking.
Minus 2: Too Unselfish
When you’re struggling to solve a goaltender, the last thing you want to do is pass up opportunities. The Sabres passed up on too many chances while trying to find the perfect play. At times, their open looks turned into a turnover or a broken play from trying to force one too many passes. They simplified a bit more as the game went on, but it was frustrating to watch opportunities be squandered at one end and converted by the Devils at the other. Buffalo could have benefited from taking what the Devils were giving them instead of looking for tap-ins.
Minus 3: Restless Crowd
Buffalo has played relatively well at home this season. Unfortunately, this was not their better showings. The effort was there but the lack of goals resulted in a less than happy home crowd. The boos could be heard on the broadcast. The loudest cheer in the third period was when they announced that there was one minute left in the game. A “Fire Adams” chant was allegedly loud enough to hear on TV. It’s hard to blame them for booing after seeing their team get shut out at home.
Final Thoughts
This was not how Buffalo wanted to start their holiday weekend. The score looks a lot worse than the game truly was. The Sabres generated enough scoring chances to keep themselves in the game but couldn’t capitalize. The Devils converted on what felt like each quality chance they had. Buffalo can redeem themselves in the back half of their back-to-back in Minnesota. Hopefully, they can finish off some of the opportunities they generate.