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Buffalo Power Play Dominates Montreal in Playoff Opener
7 May
Summary
- Buffalo's power play achieved success after a long slump.
- The Sabres made their first second-round appearance since 2007.
- Montreal appeared slow after a Game 7 victory days prior.
The Buffalo Sabres capitalized on their special teams, defeating the Montreal Canadiens 4-2 in the opening game of their second-round playoff series. This victory marked Buffalo's first second-round appearance in 15 years. Power-play goals from Bowen Byram and Ryan McLeod revitalized Buffalo's previously struggling unit, which had a historically low conversion rate.
Josh Doan and Jordan Greenway also contributed goals for the Sabres. Goaltender Alex Lyon made 26 saves, securing his fourth win since taking over the starting role. Montreal's Nick Suzuki and Kirby Dach scored, but the team appeared to lack energy after a hard-fought Game 7 victory in their previous series.
Buffalo, having had four days of rest, demonstrated improved play. Byram's goal tied a franchise record for defensemen in playoff goals. The Sabres' power-play success is a significant turnaround for a unit that had struggled throughout the regular season and the prior playoff round. The series continues in Buffalo for Game 2.
