Main storyline: October was brutal for the Buffalo Sabres. Heading into November, expectations were not very high. Fortunately, some lines were changed and defensive pairings were adjusted. With those changes, some success was found for the franchise.
November performance: The Buffalo Sabres finish the month of November with a 6-6-1, capturing 13 of a potential 26 points.
Where they stand: Buffalo still sits in 8th place in the Atlantic Division, with a 8-14-2 record and 18 points. The Sabres currently sit 14th in the Eastern Conference, and 27th in the league overall. Buffalo has scored a league-low 43 goals, and still boasts a league-worst -33 goal differential.
Buffalo notes: November saw the creation of the “GEM Line”, which features Zemgus Girgensons, Tyler Ennis, and Matt Moulson. A large part of the Sabres six wins this month are due to the efforts of the GEM Line. Heading into the month of December, Sabres forward Zemgus Girgensons is the leading vote getter for the National Hockey League All-Star Game.
Conclusion: On the surface, November appears to be a very difficult month upcoming for the Buffalo Sabres. This month features three meetings with Tampa Bay, as well as meetings with Detroit, Boston, and the New York Islanders. Those games will certainly make your schedule look difficult. It does not appear that Buffalo will have a good month on paper, but crazier things have certainly happened.