The Buffalo Sabres’ season, which began with a 4-0 loss against the New York Rangers back in October, continues as they face the Rangers in Manhattan.
The Rangers were eliminated last month, while the Sabres are vying for an Atlantic Division title with four games remaining.
The Sabres got some help on Tuesday in the form of a 6-2 loss for Tampa Bay. Montreal also won, setting up a scenario where the Sabres, Lightning and Canadiens are all tied with 102 points and all having four games left to play.
These last four games will determine the Sabres’ first-round playoff opponent and home-ice advantage.
Fresh Faces in the Sabres Lineup
The Sabres are expected to have Tanner Pearson at forward and Michael Kesselring on defence.
Pearson will replace Jordan Greenway, who’s being rested after playing four straight games following a two-month absence due to injury. Greenway will return for Thursday’s home game.
According to Ruff, the plan is to give opportunities to various players during these last four games.
Kesselring will play for the first time since March 10. Early-season injuries and the addition of Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn limited him to 32 games this year.
Kesselring spent the morning skate on a defence pair with Conor Timmins, who last played March 28 against Seattle.
The Sabres have nine defensemen who can play, and everyone will get an opportunity. They have had time to prepare for it, and they understand what they need to bring.
Luukkonen Expected in Goal
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is expected to start in goal. He has a .929 save percentage in eight career games against the Rangers.
Rangers’ Recent Form
The Rangers have won five of their last six games. They scored a combined 12 goals in wins over the Red Wings and Capitals this past weekend.
Rookie Gabe Perreault scored a hat trick in the 4-2 win over the Red Wings on Saturday. Third-year forward Will Cuylle had a hat trick in the 8-1 win over the Capitals.
Sabres’ Projected Lineup
- Tanner Pearson is expected to play forward.
- Michael Kesselring is expected to play on defence.
- Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is expected to start in goal.
Wednesday marks the Rangers’ final game.