Date: November 22nd, 2024
Time: 10:00 PM ET
Location: Honda Center, Anaheim, CA

 

The Buffalo Sabres and Anaheim Ducks are featured in tonights west coast matchup, as these two teams try to find consistency. Both teams are hovering around .500 and aim to build momentum in their respective conferences.

 

Current Standings and Recent Form

• Buffalo Sabres (9-9-1, 19 points)
  The Sabres are currently 5th in the Atlantic Division and come into this game after an impressive defensive performance in a low scoring 1-0 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. They’ve earned points in six of their last ten games after a very rough start to the season. This young and developing team has been a bit of a wildcard.
  
• Anaheim Ducks (8-8-2, 18 points)
  Anaheim sits 6th in the Pacific Division but has turned things around with a three-game winning streak, including a 3-2 comeback win over the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday after an impressive 4-2 victory over the Stars the night prior. This team has displayed resilience and improved chemistry in recent games.

 

Stats That Show

Buffalo boasts a deeper offensive lineup, while Anaheim relies on disciplined defence and timely scoring. Both teams need improvement on special teams to climb the standings.

 

Players to Watch

• Buffalo Sabres
  • Rasmus Dahlin: The dynamic defenseman leads Buffalo with 17 points in 19 games and will anchor both ends of the ice and the power play unit.
  • Alex Tuch: With 18 points on the season and 6 points in his last 4 games Tuch has been energizing the Sabres offence. He will be on the top line and power play tonight.
  • Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen: Likely the starter in goal tonight Luukkonen has a .909 save percentage and has been solid in recent outings, providing a 23 save shutout last game versus the Kings.

 

• Anaheim Ducks
  • Leo Carlsson: The rookie has found his stride on the top line, contributing to key plays during the Ducks’ win streak.
  • John Gibson: Anaheim’s goaltender has been a stabilizing presence with a .903 save percentage despite high shot volumes.
  • Olen Zellweger: This young star has elevated his game this season for the Ducks, 8 points in 17 games and 4 points in his last 3 games. His vision and poise on the blue line pay dividends for Ducks fans in the future.

 

Keys to the Game

1. Buffalo’s Defence vs. Anaheim’s Forecheck

The Sabres ability to transition cleanly out of their zone will be tested against the Ducks high flying forecheck. Under pressure Buffalo’s young defenders, led by Dahlin and Owen Power, must stay aware and ready to play the puck.

 

2. Special Teams Execution

Both teams rank in the middle of the pack in special teams. A well timed power play goal or penalty kill could swing the game in any team’s favour tonight.

 

3. Goaltending Duel

With both teams averaging around three goals against per game, the performance of Luukkonen and Gibson will likely dictate the outcome. Both goalies have been good in recent games as well.

 

4. Injuries and Depth

Anaheim is dealing with a ton of injuries the list includes: Robby Fabbri, Cam Fowler, Brock McGinn, and Mason McTavish which has tested their depth. Buffalo’s relatively healthy but they will still be without Tage Thompson, Jordan Greenway and Mattias Samuelsson.

 

Final Thoughts

The Sabres have the firepower and are coming off a strong performance, and with the Ducks home ice and recent momentum, this has all the ingredients for an intriguing matchup tonight. Expect a close game, with special teams and goaltending playing pivotal roles.

 

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