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Buffalo Sabres: 3 Keys to Beating the Ottawa Senators

By Paul Taylor

Jan 26, 2016; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Buffalo Sabres left wing Jack Eichel (15) and Ottawa Senators right wing Curtis Lazar (27) battle for the puck in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Sabres defeated the Senators 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 2016; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Buffalo Sabres left wing Jack Eichel (15) and Ottawa Senators right wing Curtis Lazar (27) battle for the puck in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Sabres defeated the Senators 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports /
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As the Buffalo Sabres prepare to take on the Ottawa Senators, we look at three factors which could decide the outcome in Canada’s capital.

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On the surface at least, the Buffalo Sabres are not much better-off than last season. As things stand, they are only three points above the Toronto Maple Leafs, who currently prop up the rest of the NHL.

However, with two consecutive victories, the Sabres have already equaled their win total for all of last season, with 25 games remaining. Now, they look to keep the recent momentum going, with a trip to Canada to play the Ottawa Senators.

This will be the third of four games between the sides this season, with the teams splitting the first two games. We look at three factors which will help determine who will take the lead in the season series.

1) Score the first goal

In many respects we’re stating the obvious here. However, there is real merit with this when it comes to facing the Senators.

Ottawa has conceded the first goal of the game 38 times this season, most in the NHL. Furthermore, they have a record of 9-23-6 in those games.

The Sabres should get plenty of opportunities to score that vital first goal. Craig Anderson has faced more shots than any other goaltender this season, and the Senators have conceded the most goals in the NHL.

2) Make up for the absence of Evander Kane

Everyone is well aware of the situation surrounding Evander Kane, who will not play against the Senators. He slept in on Monday and missed practice, after attending the NBA All-Star Game during the weekend in Toronto.

Buffalo Sabres
Feb 9, 2016; Buffalo, NY, USA; Buffalo Sabres left wing Evander Kane (9) is held back by linesman Steve Miller (89) after fighting Florida Panthers defenseman Alex Petrovic (not shown) for the second time during the second period at First Niagara Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /

The potential long-term implications aside, it is a shame 2009 fourth overall draft pick won’t be available in Ottawa. He has picked up the pace of late, with five goals in his last six games, taking him to within one of the team lead of 17.

However, Dan Bylsma deserves credit for looking past Kane’s recent form, and in the process letting the players know that nobody is bigger than the team. Furthermore, as per Mike Harrington of The Buffalo News, the 24-year old has made the trip with the team, and will likely have to endure post-practice punishments after the morning skate.

3) Jack Eichel

Jack Eichel has scored three times in the two meetings with Ottawa this season. The last time they played, he scored two goals – including the game-winner – in a 3-2 victory.

Eichel is enjoying a fine rookie campaign, and is currently tied for the team lead, with 17 goals. In addition, he is one off the lead for most goals among NHL rookies.

Overall, the 19-year old has 11 points in his last 12 games for the Sabres. The Senators will do well to keep an eye on him.

Next: Dion Phaneuf trade benefits the Leafs long-term

What do you expect from the Sabres against the Senators? Let us know in the comments section below.

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