Jacob Fowler and Kaiden Guhle are set to return as the Buffalo Sabres host the Montreal Canadiens in a highly anticipated matchup. After a day off, the Canadiens will face the revitalized Sabres, who have impressed many with their recent performances. This game is crucial, labeled as a “four-point” match as both teams vie for playoff positions.
Fowler’s Role in Goal
Jacob Fowler will be tasked with guarding the net for the Canadiens. This marks his tenth start in the NHL since his recall. Fowler has a record of 4-3-2, showcasing a goals-against average of 2.46 and a save percentage of .908. His presence will be pivotal to the Canadiens’ chances in this intense rivalry.
Guhle’s Comeback
Kaiden Guhle rejoins the Canadiens’ lineup after missing the previous match against Washington. He will replace Jayden Struble, aiming to strengthen the Canadiens’ defensive game. Guhle’s return is expected to provide a boost to the team’s overall performance.
Sabres’ Dramatic Turnaround
The Buffalo Sabres have undergone a significant transformation in their season. Following a shaky start, including just 11 wins in their first 29 games, the Sabres fired General Manager Kevyn Adams. Since then, they have rebounded remarkably, securing 14 victories in their last 16 games, boasting a record of 14-2-0.
- Current standing: 1st in wild-card spots in the Eastern Conference
- Only five points behind the Canadiens with two games in hand
Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch have led the charge offensively. Meanwhile, the defense has been solid, backed by high-level performances from goalies Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Alex Lyon. With Lyon injured and Luukkonen starting in the previous game against the Philadelphia Flyers, it is anticipated that Colten Ellis may get the start in goal.
Key Matchup Statistics
| Team | Record | Goals For/Match | Goals Against/Match | Power Play % | Penalty Kill % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canadiens | 26-14-7 | 3.34 (5th) | 3.11 (19th) | 18.5% (22nd) | 84.6% (4th) |
| Sabres | 25-16-4 | 3.19 (22nd) | 2.40 (11th) | N/A | N/A |
Looking ahead, every match against division rivals is crucial for Montreal. The Canadiens and Sabres will meet three times in just 17 days, emphasizing the significance of these encounters in their playoff aspirations.
As the teams prepare for this critical showdown, both coaching staffs are keeping their lineups under wraps until game time, adding to the intrigue of this matchup.
