Game Information: Buffalo Sabres vs. Anaheim Ducks
Matchup: Buffalo Sabres (9-9-1) vs. Anaheim Ducks (8-8-2)
Date & Time: Friday, November 22th, 2024, at 10:00 PM EST
Location: Honda Center, Anaheim, California
TV Coverage: MSG (local broadcast)
Streaming (Out of Market): ESPN+
Radio Broadcast: WGR 550
Sabres vs. Ducks Preview: Key Storylines and Lineup Changes for Tonight’s Matchup
The Buffalo Sabres continue their California road trip with a clash against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center tonight. Following a tightly contested 1-0 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday, Buffalo looks to build on their momentum as they open a back-to-back set that concludes in San Jose on Saturday. The Sabres’ penalty kill was perfect in their last outing, and their power play continues to impress with a goal in each of the last 11 games—a streak they’ll aim to extend against Anaheim.
Rasmus Dahlin is at the forefront of Buffalo’s offense, extending his point streak to seven games with a crucial assist against the Kings. His 17 points this season rank him among the NHL’s top defensemen, making him a key player to watch. Meanwhile, Alex Tuch is red-hot, riding a four-game point streak with nine points in that span, and Dylan Cozens is set to celebrate his 300th NHL game tonight.
The Ducks, however, present a tough challenge, entering the game on a three-game win streak, including a comeback victory over Chicago. Rookie Leo Carlsson, alongside Troy Terry and Alex Killorn, anchors Anaheim’s attack. The Sabres’ defense will need to stay sharp, especially against a Ducks team that thrives on late-game heroics. With Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen posting stellar numbers in November, including his recent shutout, Buffalo will rely on his consistency between the pipes to stifle Anaheim’s offense.
Tonight’s matchup pits Buffalo’s potent power play against Anaheim’s struggling penalty kill, a critical factor to watch. The puck drops at 10 p.m. on MSG and ESPN+, with pregame coverage starting at 9:30 p.m.
Sabres vs. Ducks: Team Records and Division Standings Breakdown
Heading into tonight’s game, the Buffalo Sabres (9-9-1, 19 points) sit in 5th place in the Atlantic Division, while the Anaheim Ducks (8-8-2, 18 points) occupy 7th place in the Pacific Division. Buffalo has been slightly more productive offensively, averaging 3.21 goals per game compared to Anaheim’s 2.56, and their power play has been surging recently, scoring in 10 of their last 11 contests. The Ducks, however, have shown defensive resilience, allowing fewer goals per game (3.00 vs. Buffalo’s 3.21). Anaheim’s special teams have been a challenge this season, with a penalty kill ranked 31st in the league—a vulnerability Buffalo’s power play will look to exploit. Both teams enter with similar form over their last ten games (Buffalo at 5-5-0, Anaheim at 5-4-1), making tonight’s matchup an important test as both squads aim to climb their respective division standings.
Top Players to Watch in Sabres vs. Ducks Matchup
Buffalo Sabres
- Rasmus Dahlin
The Sabres’ captain is on fire, riding a seven-game point streak with four goals and seven assists during that span. His ability to generate offense from the blue line and quarterback the power play makes him a key player for Buffalo. Dahlin ranks tied for sixth among NHL defensemen in points this season with 17 and is a major factor in the team’s current power-play success. - Alex Tuch
Tuch is another Sabres player in excellent form, currently on a four-game point streak with two goals and seven assists. Tied for the team lead with 18 points this season, his physical play and scoring touch make him a dynamic presence on Buffalo’s top line. - Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen
Luukkonen has been stellar in net, earning a .935 save percentage in his last six starts, including a shutout in Buffalo’s win over Los Angeles on Wednesday. His ability to maintain consistency and shut down Anaheim’s offense will be pivotal in this game.
Anaheim Ducks
- Troy Terry
Terry leads the Ducks in scoring with 12 points (6 goals, 6 assists) through 18 games. A skilled playmaker with a knack for finding the back of the net, he’ll be a player to watch on Anaheim’s top line. - Leo Carlsson
The second-overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft has been an early bright spot for the Ducks, tied for the team lead with six goals. Carlsson notched the game-winning goal in Anaheim’s comeback win over Chicago and will look to continue his strong rookie campaign. - Alex Killorn
Killorn, a veteran forward, is heating up with points in four straight games, including a crucial goal and assist in Anaheim’s last outing. His leadership and clutch performances make him a key piece of Anaheim’s attack.
Did You Know? Facts About Tonight’s Sabres vs. Ducks Matchup
Dylan Cozens‘ Milestone Night
Dylan Cozens is set to play in his 300th NHL game tonight. He has been a consistent performer against Anaheim, registering points in four consecutive games against the Ducks (2 goals, 4 assists). His leadership will be pivotal in maintaining the Sabres’ strong record.
JJ Peterka’s Hot Streak
JJ Peterka has been lighting it up recently, recording eight points (3 goals, 5 assists) over his last seven games. His consistent offensive contributions have bolstered Buffalo’s attack, especially with Tage Thompson sidelined.
Bowen Byram’s Offensive Presence
Defenseman Bowen Byram has been impactful for the Sabres, recording multi-point games in back-to-back contests against Anaheim (3 points, 1 goal, 2 assists). His ability to join the rush and contribute offensively will be a factor to watch tonight.
Injury Updates and Lineup News From NHL.com
Sabres projected lineup
JJ Peterka — Ryan McLeod — Alex Tuch
Zach Benson — Dylan Cozens — Sam Lafferty
Jason Zucker — Jiri Kulich — Jack Quinn
Beck Malenstyn — Peyton Krebs — Nicolas Aube-Kubel
Rasmus Dahlin — Bowen Byram
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen
Scratched: Isak Rosen, Dennis Gilbert
Injured: Tage Thompson (lower body), Mattias Samuelsson (lower body), Jordan Greenway (undisclosed)
Ducks projected lineup
Alex Killorn — Leo Carlsson — Trevor Zegras
Frank Vatrano — Ryan Strome — Troy Terry
Cutter Gauthier — Isac Lundestrom — Brett Leason
Ross Johnston — Jansen Harkins — Sam Colangelo
Jackson LaCombe — Olen Zellweger
Brian Dumoulin — Drew Helleson
Scratched: None
Injured: Cam Fowler (upper body), Robby Fabbri (lower body), Urho Vaakanainen (upper body), Brock McGinn (lower body), Mason McTavish (upper body)
Fan Engagement: Share Your Thoughts!
Sabres fans, we want to hear from you! Who do you think will step up big in tonight’s game against the Ducks? Will JJ Peterka keep his hot streak alive, or will Rasmus Dahlin or Alex Tuch steal the spotlight? How do you see this matchup playing out as the Sabres continue their California road trip? Drop your predictions, thoughts, and favorite pregame rituals in the comments, or join the conversation on Twitter/X @SabresInsight! Let’s bring the energy and excitement before the puck drops at 10 p.m. Go Sabres!