⏰ 7 p.m. ? MSG ? WGR550
Season series: This is the first of two meetings between the clubs this year. The final meeting will take place on March 7th when the Sabres will travel to the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Last year the teams split the two games with Chicago winning the first in overtime by a 3-2 score and the Sabres taking the second, 5-3, late in the season.
Buffalo notes: After coming off a disappointing 1-0 loss to the Dallas Stars on Wednesday night and going 2-3 on their five-game road trip, Buffalo will look to use its’ seven-game homestand to make up some ground in the playoff race. The Sabres will not have to hit the road again until February 17th when they travel to New Jersey and take on the Devils.
Chicago notes: Chicago should be a well-rested team when they battle the Sabres on Friday night. This is their first game back after their bye week. Chicago is coming off a pair of victories and will be looking to build some momentum on a disappointing season so far. The Blackhawks are 2-3-2 over their last seven games and have given up 31 goals over that stretch. Patrick Kane is still Chicago’s main offensive threat, gathering 29 goals and 42 assists already this season.
Starting goaltenders: Expect Carter Hutton to get the call for the Sabres on Friday and Collin Delia to get the nod for the Blackhawks.