KeyBank Center Showdown: Buffalo Sabres Face Ottawa Senators

As the Buffalo Sabres gear up to host the Ottawa Senators at KeyBank Center, fans are eager to see if the home advantage will play a pivotal role in this matchup. The Sabres, coming off a previous season with mixed results, have an opportunity to set a positive tone for their new campaign.

Last season's analytics reveal areas where the Sabres can capitalize and improve. With an average of nearly 30 shots per game and a shooting percentage of 9 percent, it's clear that creating scoring opportunities isn't an issue for the team. However, converting those chances into goals will be crucial against the Senators.

Faceoffs have been another area of concern for Buffalo, winning only 46 percent last season. Winning puck possession off draws could be vital in controlling the game's tempo and keeping pressure on Ottawa.

The powerplay unit showed promise with a conversion rate of approximately 21 percent. If they can maintain or improve upon this effectiveness while also bolstering their penalty kill – which stood at about 76 percent last season – they could tilt special teams battles in their favor.

Defensively, improving their minus-281 plus-minus rating from last year is essential. The team averaged almost 11 blocked shots per game; increasing this number might help reduce goals against which averaged over three per game last year.

Goaltending remains a critical factor as well; with save percentages hovering around 89 percent previously, there is room for improvement between the pipes to give Buffalo more competitive edge during close encounters.

Fans should expect an energetic start from both teams as they look to establish early dominance in what promises to be an exciting clash at KeyBank Center.

The action unfolds on October 13th at KeyBank Center in Buffalo with fans able to catch live broadcasts on ESPN+, TSN5, MSG-B (channel 635-1), and RDS networks.