Pittsburgh has bought into coach Ivan Hlinka's defensive philosophy, and the results are impressive. They've allowed just 10 goals in seven games. Buffalo had too many defensive lapses, bad penalties and giveaways Thursday night. The Sabres need to play error-free hockey to advance. Keep the game on the boards.
Buffalo can grind out victories over Pittsburgh.
But the Sabres won't win if it turns into a skills contest. He didn't play in the third period because of an injury to his right leg. If he's going to be out for a while, Pittsburgh could be in trouble. Buffalo generated quality scoring chances. Now the Sabres just need to convert them.