Sabres' power-play surge lifts Buffalo to Game One
PUBLISHED May 6, 2026, 11:14 PM ET
Read, Watch or Listen
BUFFALO — The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4-2 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference second-round series on Wednesday night, as Bowen Byram and Ryan McLeod converted power-play goals while Josh Doan and Jordan Greenway also scored and Alex Lyon made 26 saves to help build an early multi-goal lead. The victory ended a prolonged power-play drought with Buffalo going 2-for-3 after previously converting only once in 46 opportunities, and it gives the Sabres a 1-0 series lead; Buffalo will host Game 2 on Friday before the series moves to Montreal on Sunday, while coaches and players cited preparation and focus in postgame comments.
By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News
Aggregated From:
Timeline of Events
- Buffalo secured home-ice positioning during the regular season before playoffs began.
- Montreal completed a seven-game first-round series three days prior to Game 1.
- Wednesday night: Buffalo defeated Montreal 4-2 in Game 1 of the second round.
- Buffalo's power play converted twice (2-for-3) after a 1-for-46 stretch over previous games.
- Game 2 scheduled in Buffalo on Friday; series shifts to Montreal on Sunday.
News Intelligence
- The Sabres' victory is a morale boost for Buffalo fans. It shows that the team can overcome challenges, like a power-play drought. If you're a fan, it's a reason to celebrate. If you're not, it's a reminder that underdogs can surprise. You can watch Game 2 on Friday to see if the Sabres keep their momentum.
- Articles Published:
- 6
- Right Leaning:
- 0
- Left Leaning:
- 0
- Neutral:
- 6
- Distribution:
- Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%
The Buffalo Sabres organization, players and home-market businesses benefited from a Game 1 victory, increased ticket and broadcast interest, and a revitalized power play that improved immediate postseason prospects.
The Montreal Canadiens, their players and traveling supporters suffered a Game 1 loss that left them trailing 1-0 in the second-round series and facing a quick turnaround for Game 2.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
No left-leaning sources found for this story.
From Center
Sabres' power-play surge lifts Buffalo to Game One
WKBW WKMG The New York Times Jefferson City News Tribune Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette The New York TimesFrom Right
No right-leaning sources found for this story.
Comments