Buffalo Sabres Stumble as Ottawa Senators Skate to a 6-2 Victory

The Buffalo Sabres, with a record of 33-31-8, faced off against the Ottawa Senators, who came into the game with a 28-34-10 record. In a contest that saw both teams eager to improve their standings, it was the Senators who emerged victorious with a decisive 6-2 scoreline.

The game at KeyBank Center started off with an aggressive push from the visiting team. The Ottawa Senators set the tone early by netting five goals in the first period alone. Their offensive display was backed by an impressive shooting percentage of 14 percent throughout the game. The Senators' even-strength performance was particularly dominant, accounting for all six of their goals on 37 shots.

The Buffalo Sabres struggled to find their rhythm in the initial period but managed to respond in the second with two goals while maintaining an even strength. Despite this effort and out-hitting their opponents with 31 hits compared to Ottawa's 25, they were unable to sustain momentum into the third period where they failed to add any additional points.

Special teams did not make much of an impact for either side; both teams had two powerplay opportunities but neither could capitalize on them. The Sabres had four powerplay shots and won three out of four faceoffs during those chances but still couldn't convert any into goals.

Goaltending played a crucial role as well; while both goalies faced over thirty shots – Buffalo's goaltender making 36 saves and Ottawa's stopping 34 – it was ultimately Ottawa's netminder who walked away with credit for a win due largely to his team’s robust defensive play which included blocking eighteen shots.

The home team did have some individual performances worth noting: they managed more blocked attempts than their opponents (20) and took more total shots (36), showcasing their willingness to engage offensively despite being outscored significantly.

Looking ahead after this tough loss at home, fans can catch the next Buffalo Sabres game against New Jersey Devils scheduled for March 29 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, NY. This upcoming match will be broadcasted live on ESPN+ via internet streaming as well as MSG-B and MSGSN television networks starting at 7:00 PM ET.