Game #32: Buffalo Sabres vs New York Rangers Open Thread

The Rangers are set to hit the ice for the final time before the Christmas break, and tonight’s matchup will be the rubber match of the season series against their upstate rivals. The Buffalo Sabres are back in town to play the third and final game of the season against the Blueshirts.

The Rangers and Sabres have traded 5-1 road victories in their previous two matchups, with the Blueshirts opening the season in blowout fashion over Buffalo back in October before the Sabres came to Madison Square Garden in November to return the favor. The Sabres appear primed to extend their playoff drought to 13 consecutive seasons, as they enter tonight seven points back of a playoff spot while sitting 14th in the Eastern Conference standings. The Rangers still stand atop the conference in spite of their loss last night, and will look to go into the break on a high note with a victory tonight.

Player to Watch: Erik Gustafsson

Since Adam Fox’s return to the lineup at the end of November, Gustafsson has returned to a less prominent depth role, usually playing third pairing minutes and the occasional power play shift. Keep an eye on Gustafsson to make an impact as one of New York’s unsung heroes helps lead them to one more win before Christmas.

Enjoy the game!