I thought the Sabres were fortunate to be tied 2-2 going into the 3rd period. Toronto really took it to the Sabres in the first two periods. It seemed like they beat the Sabres to every loose puck and were winning every battle along the boards. To the Sabres credit, they hung in there and played a great 3rd period.
Some other notes...
On the play where Biron was out of the net, if he would have hustled back to the net, it would not have been a goal. Instead he skated without urgency back to his crease and ended up trying to make a desperation poke check. Other than this, I thought Biron played a solid game in net.
I give credit where credit is due...Connolly had a very good game(even though he fired one high and wide from 15 feet late in the 3rd period) :angry: . Also good to see Drury get a couple of points. He flashes skills at times that convince you that he can put up 70 points, but then somehow disappears for long stretches. This shouldn't be happening to a guy who is "supposedly" a hard worker on the ice.
Vanek looks like he has regained his confidence. I liked him on the PP yesterday. There were several times where he was in the slot trying to find some open space with his stick cocked and ready to shoot.
Briere and Dumont have cooled off. I would really like to see Vanek back up with them.
I know this will be tough to find, but the Sabres truly need a blueliner with some size and speed. Not just another journeyman like Numminen or Lydman. Brendan Witt comes to mind immediately. If it means having to give up a high draft pick, a forward currently on the roster or a highly ranked prospect(along with Biron when Miller gets healthy), then so be it.
The way Ottawa is playing, it is going to be a tough road to hoe, but I hope the Sabres are at the very least competitive, unlike the first two meetings with the Senators.