The Buffalo Sabres announced on May 10 that they will face the Montreal Canadiens in Game 3 of their second-round playoff series at Bell Centre, with puck drop scheduled for Sunday at 7 p.m.
The game follows a significant 5-1 loss in Game 2, which the team described as an uncharacteristic performance marked by costly puck decisions. In response, the Sabres held a full practice on Saturday to refocus ahead of the upcoming matchup.
“We got skating out there, I think everyone loosened up a little bit,” Alex Tuch said. “Getting back into playing hockey, some good laughs and just trying to stay loose. Trying to build up each other’s confidence and get back to how we know we can play.”
Coverage of the game will be available nationally on ESPN and locally via WGR 550 radio and the Buffalo Sabres App. Pregame and postgame shows featuring Brian Duff and Martin Biron will air on MSG, the Sabres App, as well as on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and YouTube. The pregame show is set to begin at 6:30 p.m.
Sam Carrick is set to make his playoff debut for Buffalo after recovering from an arm injury sustained during a fight on March 31. Carrick replaces Tyson Kozak on the fourth line; he recorded five goals in thirteen games since being acquired from New York Rangers at this season’s trade deadline. The remainder of the lineup remains unchanged from previous games, though power-play units were adjusted following an unsuccessful effort in Game 2.
Coach Lindy Ruff commented about managing momentum early: “I’d love to shut down the crowd by putting one in the back of the net right away.” Beck Malenstyn also spoke about Buffalo’s road performance so far: “I think we have a confidence in our group that we can play on the road… it’s something we’ll lean on moving forward here.”
Buffalo enters Game 3 undefeated (3-0) away from home during these playoffs after outscoring Boston Bruins by ten goals over three games in Round One. Goaltender Lyon posted a .960 save percentage across those contests.
Looking ahead, both players and coaches indicate that maintaining composure under pressure remains key as they seek to regain control of their series against Montreal.
