The Buffalo Sabres took the First Niagara Center ice tonight, for the first time since February 26, looking to snap their 5 game losing streak.
On the surface, it seemed like a bad night to try and snap a streak, since the opposing team just so happened to be one of the best (and hottest) teams in the National Hockey League.
When things were said and done, Buffalo’s losing streak would be extended to 6 games.
Things started off fairly well for the Buffalo Sabres. Multiple chances were had, with Buffalo controlling the pace of play for much of the first half of the period.
Unfortunately, things came back to Earth for the Sabres.
While New York did not get on the board, they did dominate play much of the remainder of the first period.
After one period, the Rangers were leading in shots on goal 8-7, but attempted shots on goal told the real story. The Rangers out-attempted the Sabres 23-8 in the first period.
The second period would begin just at the first had: Buffalo showed up with a boatload of energy and controlled play, but quickly gave way to the Rangers.
As the period grew later, the Rangers continued to control the offensive zone. New York was also able to come up with a few choice offensive chances.
With that being said, it seems like Anders Lindback had the luck of the Irish on his side, at least through two periods.
The most impressive “save” Lindback made during the period, came on a shot from Martin St. Louis. Lindback found himself over-committing, and out of position. St. Louis watched Lindback stretch out, and put a puck off the post.
After two periods, things found themselves scoreless at the First Niagara Center.
The third and final period began, with both sides trying to wrestle momentum away from each other.
Unfortunately, the Sabres were unable to grab momentum and the Rangers instincts took over.
Just 7:31 into the period, Keith Yandle would put home his 5th goal of the season. This goal put the Rangers up 1-0, which would end up being the difference maker.
Martin St. Louis would score an empty netter, with less than a minute to go, to put the bow on this one.
Buffalo would fall to New York, 2-0. This drives the Sabres record to 19-43-6.
Buffalo takes the ice again this Monday night, when they host the Washington Capitals. That game can be seen nationally on NBCSN. Puck drops shortly after 7 PM.