Opinion
3 min read

Buffalo Sabres Seek Redemption Against Ottawa Senators at KeyBank Center

As the Buffalo Sabres gear up to face the Ottawa Senators, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a recent loss and capitalize on home ice advantage. The upcoming game, scheduled at the KeyBank Center, promises to be a crucial moment for the Sabres as they look to assert their dominance in front of a supportive crowd.


Jan 11, 2024; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Buffalo Sabres defenseman Ryan Johnson (33) knocks the puck off the stick of Ottawa Senators right wing Claude Giroux (28) during the second period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

The last outing for the Sabres was not one they'd like to remember. On March 16th against the Detroit Red Wings, despite putting up an impressive 26 shots and maintaining physicality with 28 hits, they fell short with only one goal finding its way past Detroit's goaltender. The powerplay unit managed to convert once out of two opportunities but failed to sustain offensive pressure throughout the game. A stark contrast in shooting percentage was evident as well – a mere four percent compared to Detroit's fifteen percent.


However, looking back at their performance on March 14th against the New York Islanders offers some solace and hope. The Sabres showcased their scoring prowess by netting four goals on thirty-seven shots – an eleven percent shooting success rate that underlines their potential when firing on all cylinders. Their powerplay clicked effectively that night too, converting one out of four chances.


Jan 11, 2024; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Buffalo Sabres defenseman Owen Power (25) looks to make a pass during the first period against the Ottawa Senators at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

The defensive aspect also seems promising for Buffalo based on recent performances. Goaltending has been solid with save percentages standing firm at one hundred percent across different strengths – even strength, powerplay and shorthanded situations alike.


When it comes down to facing Ottawa Senators this time around, it is essential for Buffalo Sabres (BUF) not just to maintain these strong defensive efforts but also find consistency in their offense which has shown flashes of brilliance yet lacks steadiness.


Jan 11, 2024; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Ottawa Senators defenseman Jakob Chychrun (6) looks to block a pass during the second period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

The Senators will undoubtedly come prepared; however BUF must leverage every aspect of their game - from winning faceoffs (which stood at fifty-four percent against Islanders) and blocking shots (eighteen blocks against Red Wings), all while keeping penalties in check.


It is imperative that BUF brings forth an aggressive yet disciplined approach if they wish not only win but dominate this matchup. Fans should expect nothing less than a determined squad ready to make amends for past shortcomings and skate off with a victory that could serve as a turning point in their season trajectory.


Mark your calendars for March 27th when Buffalo Sabres take on Ottawa Senators right here at KeyBank Center. Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM EDT and fans can catch all action live either online via ESPN+ or through traditional broadcast means on MSG-B network.

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