Opinion
3 min read

Jets Soar to Buffalo: Sabres Aim to Ground Winnipeg at KeyBank Center

Buffalo Sabres fans, the stage is set for an electrifying clash as your team prepares to host the Winnipeg Jets at the KeyBank Center. The upcoming game promises to be a spectacle of skill and strategy, with both teams eager to assert their dominance on the ice.


Jan 26, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN;  Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck (37) makes a save on a Buffalo Sabres shot during the first period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Sabres have been showcasing a mixed bag of performances lately. In their recent encounter against the Montreal Canadiens on February 22nd, they emerged victorious with a scoreline of 3-2. The second period was particularly impressive for Buffalo, netting three goals and demonstrating their ability to capitalize on momentum swings. Their goaltending was nothing short of stellar, saving all but two of 31 shots—a save percentage that speaks volumes about their defensive resilience.


However, it wasn't all smooth sailing in their previous home game against the Anaheim Ducks on February 19th. Despite putting up a valiant fight and firing an impressive 37 shots towards goal, they fell short with a final score of 3-4 in favor of Anaheim. This loss highlighted some areas for improvement—particularly in maintaining defensive solidity throughout each period.


Jan 26, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN;  Buffalo Sabres forward Owen Power (25) tries to evade Winnipeg Jets forward Saku Maenalanen (8) during the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports

On another positive note, during an intense faceoff against Minnesota Wild on February 17th in St. Paul, Buffalo showed true grit by bouncing back from being down two goals in the third period and securing victory in overtime—underscoring their tenacity and never-say-die attitude.


As we turn our attention towards Winnipeg Jets' visitation, it's crucial for BUF to harness this same fighting spirit while tightening up defensively if they are going to ground the Jets' offensive prowess. The Sabres will need more than just high shot volume; efficiency must be key if they are going to outscore WPG's formidable attack.


Jan 26, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN;  Buffalo Sabres defenseman Kale Clague (38) skates away from Winnipeg Jets forward Morgan Barron (36) during the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Winnipeg comes into this game with its own set of strengths and weaknesses that BUF must exploit. A well-rounded approach focusing on strong goaltending performance coupled with sharp shooting can tilt this encounter in favor of Buffalo.


Looking ahead at what promises to be an enthralling match-up between these two teams—the action unfolds at KeyBank Center on March 4th at precisely midnight Eastern Time (ET). Fans won't want to miss a moment as both sides vie for supremacy; you can catch every play live either online via ESPN+ or through traditional broadcast means on MSG-B network.

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