Game #56
Buffalo Sabres (21-28-6) vs.
Montreal Canadiens (27-24-4)
Three Questions
1. Which period will be the awful one tonight?
In their previous two games, the Sabres gave up three goals in a first period, and four goals in a second period. Advanced math tells us they should give up five in the third tonight, then six in overtime in their next game.
2. Who will step up on offense?
Last night, it seemed like only Jack Eichel and Justin Bailey could make anything happen on offense, with seven shots apiece. The reliable Jamie McGinn scored the team’s only goal, but the Sabres are desperate for offense, especially with all the injuries they’re suffering right now. Will anyone step up tonight and actually put pucks in the net?
3. Who will be called up from Rochester?
Dan Catenacci was injured against the Flyers (and no hearing for Gudas…) and Sabres coach Dan Bylsma said the team would call up someone from Rochester to replace him. Smart money is on Tim Schaller or Phil Varone, both of whom can fill a fourth line role well enough. Mark Pysyk and Mike Weber will not play tonight.
Projected BUF lines
McCabe – Franson