Opinion
3 min read

Can the Buffalo Sabres Ride Their Momentum Against the New York Islanders at KeyBank Center?

As the Buffalo Sabres gear up to face off against the New York Islanders, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The upcoming clash at KeyBank Center promises to be a spectacle of skill and strategy, with both teams eager to assert their dominance on the ice.


Oct 21, 2023; Buffalo, New York, USA; New York Islanders goaltender Semyon Varlamov (40) makes a stop Buffalo Sabres in the second period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

The Sabres have been on an impressive streak lately, showcasing a level of play that could very well intimidate their opponents. In their recent victory over the Vegas Golden Knights on March 3rd, they dominated with a resounding 7-2 win. This wasn't just any win; it was a statement. The team's offense was firing on all cylinders, converting 20 percent of their shots into goals and demonstrating lethal efficiency during power plays.


What's more compelling is how they've managed to turn potential weaknesses into strengths. Despite winning only 46 percent of faceoffs in that game, they capitalized on shorthanded opportunities by scoring two goals while being one man down—a testament to their resilience and tactical prowess.


Oct 21, 2023; Buffalo, New York, USA; New York Islanders center Bo Horvat (14) shoots the puck past Buffalo Sabres defenseman Connor Clifton (75) in the third period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

Their performance against Tampa Bay Lightning on March 1st further solidifies this narrative. Even though they were outplayed in faceoff wins and had fewer hits than Tampa Bay, they still emerged victorious in overtime with a scoreline reflecting sheer determination: 3-2 for Buffalo.


However, it hasn't all been smooth sailing for BUF. A closer look at their February 28th game against Florida Panthers reveals cracks that could be exploited by NYI if not addressed promptly. The Sabres lost that match narrowly by one goal (3-2), but what stands out is their struggle in maintaining puck control—evidenced by winning only 39 percent of faceoffs—and an unusually high number of penalties which could have cost them dearly.


Oct 21, 2023; Buffalo, New York, USA; Buffalo Sabres left wing Victor Olofsson (71) and New York Islanders right wing Julien Gauthier (16) battle for the puck in the second period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

The Islanders should not be underestimated either; they will come prepared and ready to challenge every puck drop. However, given BUF's recent form and home advantage where fan support will undoubtedly fuel their drive even further—it seems likely that the Sabres can continue riding this wave of momentum towards another exhilarating win.


Fans are encouraged to join what promises to be an electric atmosphere at KeyBank Center or tune into MSG-B or MSGSN networks as these two teams collide under the bright lights on March 14th at 7:00 PM EST.

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