Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Buffalo Sabres
This afternoon, the Columbus Blue Jackets will host the Buffalo Sabres, with puck drop scheduled for 3 PM. The Blue Jackets currently hold a record of 17 wins, 16 losses, and 6 overtime losses, placing them in 8th position in the Metropolitan Division with 40 points. In contrast, the Sabres have been impressive lately, boasting a record of 21-14-4 and 46 points, maintaining a perfect streak with 10 consecutive wins.
Team Stats Overview
In terms of statistics, the Blue Jackets have struggled with a power play efficiency of 18.6%, ranking 19th in the NHL, and their penalty kill rate stands at 75%, which is 30th overall. They have scored a total of 114 goals this season, placing them 21st in the league, while their defense has allowed 130 goals, ranking 22nd.
The Sabres, on the other hand, have a marginally better power play at 18.8%, placing them 18th. Their penalty kill is considerably more effective, sitting at 85% (2nd in the NHL). Buffalo’s offense has produced 121 goals (18th) and they have also allowed 121 goals (17th).
Head-to-Head Matchup
Columbus has historically fared well against the Sabres, holding a favorable all-time record of 28-16-1-3, including 13 victories out of 22 games when playing at home. The Blue Jackets are also 10-4-3 against the Sabres in their last 17 encounters. Notably, the Jackets have successfully defended against 11 consecutive power plays from Buffalo.
Key Players to Watch
For the Sabres, Tage Thompson leads the squad with 20 goals and 37 total points, while Rasmus Dahlin tops the roster in assists with 24. Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen‘s record stands at 7-5-1 with a save percentage of .903.
On the Blue Jackets’ side, Zach Werenski has accumulated 17 points over 20 games against Buffalo. Boone Jenner has 14 points in 25 matchups, and Kirill Marchenko has netted 4 goals and 8 points in just 9 games against the Sabres, including a hat trick in his career. Goalie Elvis Merzlikins has an even record of 2 wins and 2 losses against Buffalo, with a save percentage of .864.
Injury Updates
Columbus is currently dealing with several injuries: Erik Gudbranson is sidelined due to an upper body issue and hasn’t played in 34 games, while Isac Lundeström and Miles Wood are also on the injured reserve list, the latter being evaluated on a week-to-week basis. Brendan Smith is similarly affected, missing recent games due to a lower body injury, contributing to a total of 85 man games lost.
Broadcast Information
Fans can catch this exciting matchup on the FANDUEL SPORTS NETWORK with play-by-play commentary from Steve Mears. For those preferring radio broadcasts, tune into 97.1 The Fan where Bob McElligott will provide live commentary. Keep up with the latest Blue Jackets news, analysis, and updates by visiting our online community.
