The Buffalo Sabres overcame some adversity for the first time in a while with a 4-3 comeback win over the NY Islanders.
The Sabres fell behind early in the first period 3-1 and eventually fought back for the 4-3 shootout victory. They didn't panic and that can most assuredly be attributed to the lonstanding steady hand of their coach Lindy Ruff. The team also got a very solid contribution from Paul Gaustad tonight.
Lets not get too crazy just yet, though. The Islanders did get a point in the game and the Sabres are 10 points back as we speak, but they do seem to be gaining momentum. They have gotten 7-8 possible points in their last four and seem to be putting together a bit of a run.
Ryan Miller settled down after a rough opening twenty minutes and held the Islanders scoreless for the rest of the game, including a power play in overtime. The offense was powered by the unlikely Paul Gaustad even though his mark on the score sheet was a lone goal. He was dominant in just about every facet of the game and controlled play every time he was on the ice.
The Sabres have yet to really feel the sting of losing Thomas Vanek, but the defense and goaltending has come around nicely to offset that injury. They still need to find more of a finishing touch as their is no shortage of scoring chances.
The NHL season is a marathon and the Sabres race is even longer with the hole they've dug themselves into. They have a long way to go, but, a win is a win and every point helps from here on out. They have a golden opportunity with a four game home stand against playoff caliber teams. We'll know where the season stands next Tuesday night.
