Opinion
3 min read

Can the Buffalo Sabres Ride Their Momentum Against the Carolina Hurricanes?

The Buffalo Sabres have been showcasing a level of play that has both fans and analysts taking notice. With their recent performance, particularly the dominant 7-0 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on February 14th, there's a palpable buzz around KeyBank Center. The Sabres' ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities was evident as they converted 29 percent of their shots into goals, an impressive feat by any standard.


Dec 2, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin (26) takes a shot against the Carolina Hurricanes during the second period at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

In contrast to this high-flying offense, the game against the St. Louis Blues on February 10th highlighted some areas for improvement. Despite outshooting their opponents with a total of 34 shots, only one found its way past the goaltender—a stark reminder that quantity does not always equate to quality.


The Dallas Stars presented another challenge for Buffalo just days earlier on February 7th. The Sabres peppered Dallas with an overwhelming 48 shots but were stifled by exceptional goaltending, managing to net only one goal. This outcome serves as a testament to how crucial it is for Buffalo to maintain precision and composure in front of goal.


Dec 2, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Hurricanes center Jack Drury (18) and Buffalo Sabres defenseman Connor Clifton (75) fight during the third period at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead at their upcoming clash with the Carolina Hurricanes, it's clear that maintaining offensive efficiency will be key for Buffalo. The Hurricanes are known for their disciplined play and will not easily concede scoring chances. Therefore, converting powerplay opportunities and winning faceoffs will be critical components in tilting the ice in favor of BUF.


Defensively speaking, BUF has shown resilience when playing at even strength and while shorthanded—evidenced by shutting out Los Angeles entirely during regular play and successfully killing penalties across recent games.


Dec 2, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Buffalo Sabres center Tyson Jost (17) scores a goal past Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov (52) and  defenseman Jalen Chatfield (5) during the third period at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

As we approach this exciting matchup at KeyBank Center between two formidable teams, all eyes will be on whether BUF can continue its assertive playstyle while tightening up any loose ends from previous outings.


Sabres fans should mark their calendars for Sunday night hockey excitement as Buffalo takes on Carolina at home in KeyBank Center on February 25th at 6:00 PM EST (23:00 UTC). For those unable to attend in person, you can catch all the action live via ESPN+ online or tune into MSG-B channel 635-1 or BSSO channel 646-1 depending upon your location.

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