⏰ 9 p.m. ? MSG ? WGR550
Intro: Following a 5-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning at home Saturday night, the Sabres begin their three-game road trip of Western Canada on Monday as they take on the Oilers in Edmonton, Alberta. Currently out of a playoff spot, the Sabres will look for some crucial wins before they break for the All-Star game in late January.
Season series: This will be the team’s only trip out to Rogers Place in Edmonton for the Sabres this season, with the Oilers making the trek to KeyBank Center on March 4.
Buffalo notes: Currently on a two-game losing streak, and with only wins in three of their last nine games, the Sabres now sit one point out of a playoff spot and are in desperate need of building momentum. The first line has continued to produce, with Jeff Skinner has been a consistent player for the Sabres as of late, with five points (4 goals, assist) in his last five games and continuing his string. Despite the dominance of their top line, one of their areas of concern has been secondary scoring, which they earned last game from Tage Thompson and Marco Scandella in an effort for the team to become more consistent as a lineup.
Opponent notes: After splitting the first two games of their current home stand in a win against Florida and a loss to Arizona, this matchup against Buffalo will be the last game of their current home stretch before taking a quick road trip to Vancouver. Connor McDavid, per usual, is leading the way for the Oilers, amassing six points (3 goals, 3 assists) in his last four games, but like Buffalo, needs some support from others to help bring success to this team.
Starting goaltenders: Carter Hutton should earn the start in net against the Oilers after Linus Ullmark played last Saturday against the Lightning. For Edmonton, starter Cam Talbot will likely be between the pipes for the home team in tonight’s matchup.
Line Combos:
Offense
Defense
Goaltenders
Starter Backup
