Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 13, 2024 6:28 pm GMT
As the buzz of hockey season kicks into high gear, the Buffalo Sabres are set to face off against the Columbus Blue Jackets this evening in a pivotal preseason matchup. Fans are eager to see how the team’s nearly complete roster stacks up against their competition. With an early puck drop at 5:09 p.m. at KeyBank Center, the atmosphere promises to be electric.
Preseason Game Overview
This game against the Blue Jackets marks the second preseason game for the Sabres. Following their dominant 7-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday, the team is looking to build momentum. Tonight’s match shifted to an earlier start to accommodate the Buffalo Bills, who will be playing later in the evening.
- Game Details:
– When: Monday, 5:09 p.m.
– Where: KeyBank Center, Buffalo
– Broadcast: Available on Sabres.com and WWKB 1520AM radio.
Before the puck drops, the Sabres will observe a moment of silence to honor the memory of the Gaudreau brothers, reflecting the organization’s commitment to community and respect for its members.
Sabres Roster Insights
Expectations are high as the Sabres dress a roster filled with talent and potential. Here’s what fans can anticipate seeing on the ice:
- Forwards: Nicolas Aube-Kubel, Zach Benson, Dylan Cozens, Jordan Greenway, Peyton Krebs, Sam Lafferty, Beck Malenstyn, Ryan McLeod, JJ Peterka, Jack Quinn, Tage Thompson, Jason Zucker.
- Defense: Bowen Byram, Connor Clifton, Dennis Gilbert, Henri Jokiharju, Owen Power, Mattias Samuelsson.
- Goalies: Devon Levi, Felix Sandstrom.
Ryan McLeod, Jason Zucker, and newcomer Dennis Gilbert are among those making their Sabres debuts tonight after missing the Pittsburgh game.
Blue Jackets Roster Composition
In contrast, the Blue Jackets are fielding a roster largely composed of American Hockey League (AHL) players and prospects. This gives them a unique opportunity to evaluate younger talent:
- Forwards: Cole Sillinger, Dmitri Voronkov, Dylan Gambrell, Adam Fantilli, Mathieu Olivier, Cameron Butler, Hunter McKown, Luca Pinelli, Trey Fix-Wolansky, Luca Del Bel Belluz, Mikael Pyyhtia, Tyler Peddle.
- Defense: Jack Johnson, Jordan Harris, David Jiricek, Charlie Elick, Corson Ceulemans, Stanislav Svozil.
- Goalies: Evan Gardner, Jet Greaves.
The matchup between a mostly NHL-ready Sabres squad and a developing Blue Jackets lineup adds an intriguing layer to tonight’s game.
Player Updates
One of the more notable stories leading up to the game is the status of defenseman Rasmus Dahlin. After suffering an undisclosed injury last week, Dahlin returned to the ice this morning wearing a non-contact jersey. Although he has not practiced fully since Wednesday, his progression bodes well for his quick return to full practice, particularly with the team set to travel to Germany soon.
Coach Lindy Ruff had previously indicated that Dahlin would miss only a few days, and his presence during this morning’s skate indicates positive momentum toward rejoining the team.
Sabres Line Combinations Against the Blue Jackets
Based on recent practices, here’s how the Sabres are expected to line up against the Blue Jackets:
- First Line: JJ Peterka – Tage Thompson – Peyton Krebs
- Second Line: Zach Benson – Dylan Cozens – Jack Quinn
- Third Line: Jordan Greenway – Ryan McLeod – Jason Zucker
- Fourth Line: Sam Lafferty – Beck Malenstyn – Nicolas Aube-Kubel
Defensive Pairings:
- Bowen Byram - Owen Power
- Mattias Samuelsson - Henri Jokiharju
- Dennis Gilbert – Connor Clifton
Goalies:
- Devon Levi is anticipated to start the game, with Felix Sandstrom serving as the backup.
Rasmus Dahlin back on the ice during practice, indicating a positive recovery.
A Look at Preseason Performance
As the team continues to refine its strategy, players have expressed their dedication to improving and learning from each game. JJ Peterka’s standout performance in the previous game, where he scored three goals, has made him a player to watch as the team gears up for the regular season. With each exhibition game, the coaching staff is zeroing in on the final roster spots while leveraging the talents of new acquisitions.
Buffalo’s preseason serves as a testing ground for lines and pairs, allowing coaches to evaluate who fits best with whom. The decision-making process is crucial as they seek to instill a winning culture, a goal echoed by Coach Lindy Ruff.
Conclusion
Tonight, the Sabres will play against the Blue Jackets, and it’s a great chance for them to show how much they’ve improved since the preseason. New players on the team will get a chance to shine. Fans at KeyBank Center are excited, especially thinking about the Gaudreau brothers and looking forward to a fun new season. As the team gets ready to head to Germany soon, each game will make everyone even more excited for what should be a thrilling NHL season!
