Odds: The odds do not sway in Buffalo’s favor, but due to a weak Atlantic Division, the Sabres are still in the race. They only need to pass two Atlantic teams to get in a playoff spot. That’s Florida and either Boston or Toronto.
Last night’s games: 3 of the 4 games last night went in Buffalo’s favor. Toronto, Detroit and Philadelphia each lost. Florida won, but the Sabres have a great opportunity to gain ground.
Tonight’s games of interest:
Colorado Avalanche @ Buffalo Sabres (7:30 pm) – The Sabres could move to 3 points out of the wild card and 4 behind Boston with a win tonight. Both the Leafs and Bruins are idle. Huge opportunity to move closer.
New York Rangers @ New York Islanders (7 pm) – The Islanders are one of the teams ahead of Buffalo, so we’re Rangers fans tonight.
Ottawa Senators @ New Jersey Devils (7 pm) – This one is a little tricky. It’s unlikely the Sabres will catch Ottawa, so having them win in regulation is best. The Devils are one spot ahead of Buffalo, but tied in points.
Philadelphia Flyers @ Edmonton Oilers (9 pm) – The Flyers lost last night, but they’re only two points out of the wild card. They’re a huge target for many teams. Root for the Oilers in this one.
Biggest Current Target: Boston Bruins
This could change quickly. There are a handful of teams that could slide into this spot.
For right now, the Sabres should be keeping the Bruins in their sights. Despite getting swept in the season series, Boston may be the team to catch. The Toronto Maple Leafs are one point behind Boston, but they have two games in hand. Most likely, the Leafs will pass the Bruins, dropping Boston to the final wild card spot. The Sabres trail the Bruins by six points, with one game in hand.
Here is a quick look at the remaining schedules for Buffalo and Boston: