After an impressive 2-0 shutout performance in Anaheim last night, Ryan Miller and the Buffalo Sabres are back at it again tonight, this time in San Jose.
“I felt pretty good,” Miller said. “I’ve been trying to really be calm in the net and start from in the crease. It helps that we have a lot of great back pressure. Our D is able to stand some guys up. I don’t feel I have to challenge the rush plays too much. When I do have to step up and attack, it’s more one option that I have to commit to.”
The Sharks are reeling right now, winning just three of their past 10 games, and have slipped from the division lead to 7th in the Western Conference.
While the Sharks are struggling, the Sabres have been playing better. Buffalo have earned nine points in its past five games, and are now five points out of 8th place in the Eastern Conference.
Tonight is the only meeting between the teams this season, and the Sabres won both games against the Sharks last year, by scores of 6-3 and 3-0.
With 8th-placed Washington idle tonight, the Sabres have a chance to close the gap for that final playoff spot. However, if Winnipeg defeats Florida tonight, then the Jets will move into 8th. The Sabres have two games in hand on the Jets.
The Sabres are aiming to keep their good fortunes going against the Sharks. Buffalo is 17-6-4-1 all-time against San Jose and are desperate for points as they being the month of March.
Tonight’s game is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. EST.