The Buffalo Sabres are set to play the New York Islanders at KeyBank Center on March 31, with both teams fighting for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. The Sabres recently ended a three-game losing streak by defeating Seattle in a shootout and have posted a strong 10-2-2 record over the past month.
This matchup is important as both teams are seeking to secure better spots in the standings. The Sabres, who have lost only four times since the Olympic break, remain close behind competitors like the Canadiens and Lightning. With only a few games left before playoffs, every win is crucial for home-ice advantage.
Coach Lindy Ruff said, “It’s a conference that anybody that’s right in there can push through. It’s going to be interesting. You’re down to the stage now where you do watch. I’m watching games at night, and I’m watching other teams, and it’s an exciting time.” He added humorously about his dedication: “… As my wife says, ‘You’re watching hockey again?'”
For Tuesday’s game, Buffalo will start Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen in goal instead of continuing their usual rotation; Alex Lyon will serve as backup. Forward Noah Ostlund remains out due to injury while Jordan Greenway returns after being activated from injured reserve for his first game since January 22.
A victory would mark Buffalo’s first 100-point season since 2009-10 and their franchise’s 2,000th win. Six players have appeared in all games this season so far: Tage Thompson, Josh Doan, Jack Quinn, Ryan McLeod, Bowen Byram and Peyton Krebs.
The Islanders come into this contest after losing at home against Pittsburgh but have shown resilience throughout back-to-back games this season (9-3-1). Rookie Matthew Schaefer leads all defensemen with impressive scoring numbers and is considered likely to win the Calder Trophy.
The outcome of this game could significantly impact playoff seeding for both clubs as they near the end of regular-season play.
