The Sabres came into Washington today hoping to end their road losing streak of 11 games, dating back to early November.
Not unlike the last meeting between the two clubs, this one would have to be solved in a shootout. The Sabres would come out victorious in a 2 to 1 match with the winning goal going to Cody Hodgson in the third round of the shootout.
Buffalo dictated the pace early on in the opening frame. Big physical plays from Steve Ott and Marcus Foligno set the tone.
Washington was able to get on the board first with a puck deflecting off of Flynn’s stick in front of Miller. The goal was credited to Jason Chimera, with assists going to Joel Ward and Connor Carrick.
After killing off a Washington power play chance, the Sabres found themselves on the power play. Tyler Ennis cashed in only moments into the advantage. Christian Ehrhoff fired the puck towards the net, Hodgson found the puck in his feet and kicked it free for Tyler Ennis who roofed the puck over Grubauer.
The period ended tied at one with shots in favor of Buffalo, 11 to 10.
The Sabres carried over their intensity from the first period, adding 9 shots on net for a total of 20, while limiting the Capitals to 8, for a total of 18.
Buffalo was unable to capitalize on multiple power play opportunities, leaving the game tied a one heading into the second intermission.
The Capitals nearly took the lead late in regulation when Mikhail Grabovksi found himself alone in front with a wide open net. Miller showed once again why he plays for the United States Olympic team, as he extended his stick into the opening and knocked the puck wide.
Neither team would break the tie in regulation or overtime. This one would have to be decided in the shootout.
The Capitals could not solve Ryan Miller in the shootout as they failed on all three of their attempts.
Moulson and Omark had their difficulties as they were both stopped by Grubauer, however Hodgson would make no mistake in firing a perfect shot over the netminder’s glove. This would give the Sabres a 2-1 victory.
The Sabres play again this Tuesday night, back at the First Niagara Center. Buffalo will be hosting the Philadelphia Flyers. Puck drops shortly after 7 PM, and the game will be broadcast on MSG.