Game #81: Buffalo Sabres vs New York Rangers Open Thread

The Blueshirts have returned to the friendly confines of Madison Square Garden for the final two games of the regular season. Gerard Gallant's squad once again finds itself in a position of not having a whole lot to play for as they skate across from an opponent with everything on the line, although these circumstances are a bit different than the ones for Columbus.

Tonight represents a do or die scenario for the Buffalo Sabres. Buffalo currently has 85 standings points while the Islanders and Panthers occupy the two wild card playoff spots with 91 points. The Sabres' saving grace is the two games in hand they currently hold, but those will be played over the course of a brutal four games in five days stretch starting tonight. Wins by the Islanders (@ Washington) and Panthers (vs Toronto) would knock Buffalo out regardless of the result of this game, but a Rangers' regulation win would officially end any hopes of a late season miracle run for the Sabres.

Player to Watch: Chris Kreider

Although he wasn't able to approach the 52 goals he scored last season, Kreider has turned in another stellar campaign for the Blueshirts thus far. Sporting a 36-18-54 mark through 77 games skated, Kreider's goal and point totals on the season are the second best of his career, eclipsed only by last season's incredible effort. Keep an eye on Kreider tonight as the Rangers look to stick a dagger in the heart of their in-state rivals.

Enjoy the game!