Sabres Seek Redemption Against Canucks in High-Stakes NHL Clash

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The Buffalo Sabres aim to snap a two-game losing streak as they face the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday night at Rogers Arena. Coming off a 6-4 loss to the Seattle Kraken on Monday, the Sabres (3-4-1 in January) look to regroup on their four-game Western road trip. The Canucks, despite recent struggles, remain a formidable opponent, having defeated Buffalo 4-3 in overtime on Nov. 29. Puck drop is set for 10 p.m. ET.

Buffalo’s lineup faces uncertainty as forward Jason Zucker missed the morning skate due to illness and is questionable for the game. Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen will start after sitting out Monday’s contest with what coach Lindy Ruff described as “nagging issues.” The Sabres also recalled forward Tyson Kozak and loaned goaltender Devon Levi to Rochester.

Ruff emphasized the need for improvement after Monday’s loss, particularly in puck battles and net-front defense. “We need to learn and take game day to learn to compete around the front of the net,” Ruff said. “Yesterday wasn’t acceptable.” The Sabres held a brief but competitive morning skate focused on these areas, along with a lengthy team meeting.

Monday’s game saw Buffalo take an early lead through Jack Quinn, but Seattle responded quickly, eventually securing a 6-4 win. Tage Thompson’s two-goal effort tied the game briefly, but defensive lapses proved costly. Ruff attributed the loss to lost puck battles, noting that nearly 90% of Seattle’s opportunities stemmed from Buffalo’s inability to win those crucial duels.

Buffalo’s third line of Quinn, Zach Benson, and Peyton Krebs has emerged as a bright spot. Over the last five games, the trio has driven play effectively, with a 65% share of shot attempts and a 22-11 edge in scoring chances. Krebs has six points in his last 10 games, while Benson and Quinn have also contributed significantly. Their chemistry and recent production offer hope for the Sabres’ offense.

The Canucks, led by reigning Norris Trophy winner Quinn Hughes, present a tough challenge. Hughes has 50 points this season, ranking third among NHL defensemen. Despite trade rumors surrounding key players like J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson, Vancouver remains competitive, sitting one point behind Calgary for a Western Conference wild card spot. Defenseman Tyler Myers will miss the game due to a three-game suspension.

Buffalo’s ability to bounce back will hinge on tightening their defensive play and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. With the Canucks’ offensive firepower and Hughes’ dominance, the Sabres face a critical test in their quest to regain momentum.