Sabres Ignite Power Play, Top Canadiens 4-2 to Open Second Round

Buffalo Sabres fans had plenty to cheer about after their team’s power play came alive in a 4-2 victory over the Montreal Canadiens to open their second-round playoff series. Bowen Byram and Ryan McLeod answered Buffalo’s special teams concerns, scoring back-to-back power-play goals that shifted the momentum and set the tone for the series. The Sabres’ power play had struggled in the first round, but Tuesday’s performance showed a sharp turnaround. Byram and McLeod capitalized on consecutive man-advantage opportunities, breathing new life into a unit that had been labeled anemic just a week earlier. Their goals not only put Buffalo ahead, but also showcased the team’s ability to adjust under playoff pressure. Buffalo’s offensive revival started with Byram, whose quick shot from the point beat Montreal’s goaltender, breaking through after sustained zone time. Moments later, McLeod found the net, extending Buffalo’s lead and energizing both the bench and the home crowd. Those two goals marked a significant improvement for a Sabres squad that had gone cold on the power play in the previous series. Key statistics from the contest included:

• Buffalo converted 2 of their power-play chances, after struggling in the previous round
• Byram and McLeod each recorded their first power-play goals of the postseason
• The Sabres’ penalty kill held Montreal scoreless on their own man-advantage opportunities

Beyond special teams, Buffalo’s even-strength play remained solid. The Sabres outshot Montreal and maintained a physical edge throughout the night, limiting the Canadiens’ high-danger chances and controlling the tempo for much of the game. Defensive execution was key, with Buffalo’s blue line blocking shots and clearing rebounds effectively. Montreal managed to cut into the lead in the third period, but the Sabres maintained their composure and closed out the win. With the Game 1 victory, Buffalo seized early control of the series and gained confidence that their power play can be a difference-maker moving forward. Game 2 will test whether the Sabres’ special teams resurgence is sustainable or if Montreal can adjust to Buffalo’s newfound aggression on the man advantage.