Game Recap: The Sabres Powerplay Revival in Montreal

It was a revival of sorts for the Buffalo Sabres powerplay in Montreal Thursday. The Sabres won in convincing fashion over the Canadiens, netting two on the powerplay to get things rolling towards a 6-1 decision.

Impact Players

Devon Levi was stellar in the game, with a handful of point-blank chances turned away in front of his family and friends. Levi saved nearly three goals above expected in this game, according to Evolving-Hockey.

Besides Levi, the Sabres top players were their top players. Tage Thompson had two goals and an assist. Jeff Skinner recorded a goal and three assists. Rasmus Dahlin had a goal and an assist and Alex Tuch had two helpers.

The Difference

The Sabres powerplay proved to be the spark the game needed in Montreal. It was a 0-0 game a little over five minutes into the second period, when Casey Mittelstadt was able to cash in with the man-advantage. Within a couple minutes, Skinner potted another powerplay goal, and the Sabres were off to the races.

Needs Improvement

Goaltending and efficiency were heavy in Buffalo’s favor tonight. Montreal actually won the expected goal battle, so shot quality given up is a bit of a concern.

Still, it was a good overall effort in a game that was never in doubt come the third period. It’s hard to criticize such a quality close-out. The foot stayed on the gas and they put the Canadiens away.

What’s Next

The Sabres will head to Pittsburgh for another road affair. The Penguins are climbing back into the playoff picture after a win Thursday over the Boston Bruins puts them 7-2-1 in their last 10.