The Buffalo Sabres kick off a three-game California swing with a pivotal matchup against the San Jose Sharks at SAP Center on Tuesday at 10:30 p.m. ET. This contest marks the first of four consecutive road games for Buffalo, a stretch that will test their resilience after a grueling cross-country flight. The Sabres arrive with a 4-4-3 record, having just survived a 4-3 overtime loss to the Washington Capitals in D.C. That defeat was the fourth time in five games that Buffalo extended play beyond regulation, a trend that has resulted in a 2-2 split in those high-stakes extra periods.
Buffalo aims to break four-game road slump as Colten Ellis makes first start since October.
Goalie Colten Ellis returns to the net for his first start since Oct. 12, providing a crucial stability factor for a team that has struggled with defensive consistency. The Sabres’ recent struggles are defined by second-period lapses; against Washington, they surrendered a 3-2 deficit entering the third despite jumping out to a 2-0 lead early. While Buffalo’s special teams have slumped and they have missed key scoring chances, their ability to rally in the third period has been a lifeline. Forward Josh Doan emphasized the need to shift that late-game intensity earlier, stating, “We’ve got to find a way to use that intensity in the third earlier in games.”
For the Sabres to secure a win in San Jose, they must correct their mid-game defensive breakdowns and capitalize on offensive opportunities without relying solely on late surges. The Sharks present a different challenge than the Capitals, requiring Buffalo to maintain consistent pressure across all three periods. With Ellis back in goal, the focus shifts to whether the Sabres can translate their third-period grit into a full 60-minute performance, breaking the cycle of overtime heartbreak and gaining momentum before their remaining California dates.
Source: NHL.com
