Sabres Edge Lightning in Overtime at Amalie Arena

The Tampa Bay Lightning, with a record of 36-17-4, faced off against the Buffalo Sabres, who came into the game with a 30-24-3 record. In an intense matchup that went beyond regulation time, the final score read 3-2 in favor of the visiting team.

The game began with both teams demonstrating their offensive capabilities. The Lightning struck first in the opening period, showcasing their powerplay strength by converting one of their three opportunities. Their special teams' performance was notable throughout the contest as they managed to keep all Buffalo powerplays at bay despite facing three such situations. The home team's goaltending was solid during regular play, saving all but one even-strength shot and both shots while shorthanded.

Buffalo responded quickly to Tampa Bay's initial goal by evening up the score still within the first period and then taking advantage of their own powerplay chances. They capitalized on two out of three opportunities presented to them during the game. Their success on special teams was complemented by an overtime goal that ultimately sealed their victory.

Defensively, both teams were active in front of their nets; Tampa Bay blocked a total of 20 shots while Buffalo managed to get in front of 11 attempts from Lightning shooters. Faceoffs were closely contested throughout; however, it was Tampa Bay who edged out Buffalo by winning 57 percent compared to Buffalo's 43 percent.

Despite matching each other closely on shots taken with 23 apiece and sharing equal hits—28 for Tampa Bay and 29 for Buffalo—the Sabres' goaltender stood tall making crucial saves when needed and finishing with a save percentage rounded up to a perfect hundred percent.

As fans look ahead after this hard-fought battle at Amalie Arena, they can mark their calendars for another home game where Tampa Bay will face off against Montreal Canadiens. Scheduled for March 3rd at Amalie Arena in Tampa Florida USA (zip code:33602), fans can catch live action broadcasted over ESPN+ online or BSSUN television network starting from midnight Eastern Time onwards as per US/Eastern time zone standards.