Tuesday’s Key Matchups to Watch
Sabres vs. Golden Knights – 7 p.m.
Significance: The Sabres have an opportunity to extend their winning streak to four games and, with some assistance from the Lightning, close the gap on the division leader.
Penguins at Bruins – 7 p.m.
Significance: Both of these clubs currently occupy playoff berths (the Penguins hold second in the Metropolitan, while the Bruins are in the second wild card spot). Ideally, this game concludes in regulation.
Panthers at Devils – 7 p.m.
Significance: The Sabres defeated both these teams consecutively post-Olympic break, significantly diminishing their playoff prospects. The losing team in this encounter will face an even tougher climb ahead.
Mammoth at Capitals – 7 p.m.
Significance: The Capitals, with 69 points, remain the non-playoff team closest to the Sabres. A Mammoth victory here, coupled with a Sabres win, would further increase the Sabres’ buffer.
Predators at Blue Jackets – 7 p.m.
Significance: While the Capitals are the nearest non-playoff contender by points, the Blue Jackets lead non-playoff teams in terms of points percentage. They sit eight points behind the Sabres, but with a game in hand.
Senators at Oilers – 9 p.m.
Significance: The Senators are still competitive thanks to a 6-3-1 record in their last 10 outings, placing them five points shy of the second wild card position.
Lightning at Wild – 9:30 p.m.
Significance: The Sabres closed within four points of the first-place Lightning after their win in Tampa on Saturday. However, the Lightning possess two games in hand.
Canadiens at Sharks – 10 p.m.
Significance: While the Sabres hold second place in the Atlantic Division based on points, the Canadiens – having played one fewer game – still boast a slightly superior points percentage. These two teams could be battling for position throughout the remainder of the season. Go Sharks!