Buffalo (12-5-1) vs. Boston (9-8-4)
Daniel Paille made his return to Buffalo in Friday night’s game. He was not a factor, but his team was able to defeat the Sabres in overtime.
Paul Gaustad scored in the first period on the powerplay to give Buffalo a 1-0 lead.
It was not until the 2nd when Milan Lucic would score his first of the season, tying the game at one. Lucic scored on a two on one break, receiving a perfect pass from Byron Bitz. Goaltender Tuuka Rask received an assist on the play as well.
Patrice Bergeron scored in overtime on a deflection to beat Ryan Miller and win the game for the Bruins.
It was a nice win for the Bruins, considering they played the night before while Buffalo had the night off. Boston has beat the Sabres twice this season already.
Buffalo has now gone two consecutive games when they have lost after scoring first. With the loss, Buffalo matches their longest losing streak of the season at two games.
For Boston, it is only the second time this season they have produced a winning streak of at least two games.
Buffalo has allowed 45 goals on the season, the best in the league. However, they are 27th in goals scored, with 51. Even though their goal differential is only +6, the Sabres find themselves 3rd in the Eastern Conference.
Drew Stafford, who leads the team with six goals, left the game with a bone bruise. Stafford said that he would miss Saturday’s game against Ottawa. Tyler Ennis will get recalled from Portland to play in his second career NHL game.
Patrick Lalime will get the nod tonight against Ottawa. He is back from injury and will give Miller a break until Wednesday.
Buffalo’s lead in the Northeast Division is beginning to decrease. The Sabres will take on the 3rd place Ottawa Senators tonight. Ottawa is only three points behind Buffalo for the division lead. The Bruins only trail Buffalo by two points, but the Sabres have games in hand over each team.
Buffalo vs. Ottawa. Tonight at 7:00.