After defeating the Chicago Blackhawks and closing out the Atlantic Division for the first time since the NHL changed its division format in 2013-14, it would have been easy for the Sabers to rest everyone and wrap up the season finale against the Dallas Stars.
Instead, we got a lively back and forth. Although it didn’t have the same results as the social media manager who released all the receipts, it was enough to give the fans enough time before the big playoffs. Here’s what we learned during the 4-3 loss to the Stars.
The Sabers’ Most Dangerous Line
It’s been mentioned before – because they’re amazing – but the line of Zach Benson, Josh Norris, and Josh Doan continues to be the best on the team. They are a constant, oppressive presence that feeds off each other and torments opponents relentlessly.
Both Norris and Benson scored, the latter ending up with a short split. That style of play should serve them well in the playoffs and the energy provided by what should be an electric home crowd should boost them.
It also shows that the Sabers are no longer just about moral victories. The Sabers went on a walk as the second favorite out of the Western Conference, only to fall in a shootout. It sets the tone for the playoffs this weekend.
Who is the Bottom Pair?
The top four, one of the main reasons for the conversion, are set and as tight as they get. Head coach Lindy Ruff played seven defensemen Wednesday, resting Rasmus Dahlin and Mattias Samuelsson for extra snaps.
Related: How the Sabers stack up against No. 1St Round Opposites
Logan Stanley appears to be the key to filling one of those spots. Conor Timmins got 16 minutes of ice time and is playing less, which could give him an edge over the tough Zach Metsa. It seems safe to say that Luke Schenn and Michael Kesselring will serve as depth pieces.
The safe bet right now would be Stanley and Timmins as the bottom pair. Both are strong, Stanley is physical, and Timmins plays a strong, sound game. If they can reliably serve 15 minutes each night, it would go a long way in helping the top four maintain their effectiveness.
Ellis Gives the Sabers a Triple Header Attempt
Make no mistake about it: Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is a long-term Game 1 starter. But with Alex Lyon out with an injury, Colten Ellis has stepped in to be more active in his absence.
If anything, it gives the Sabers more options in what could be postseason hockey’s most important spot. Ideally, we won’t be seeing Ellis anytime soon but it’s nice to know there’s a somewhat reliable option waiting in the wings.
Happiness Builds
We don’t have an official schedule yet, but this weekend kicks the playoffs into gear and the energy generated by the home crowd in Game 1 will be felt across the country. This is something Buffalo fans have been waiting for and you better believe the atmosphere will be off the charts.
It doesn’t matter where we come from or how long we go, this has been a classic season. The worst-to-first transition – all within a few months, no less – is the kind of thing that just doesn’t happen. We’re all just happy to be on the ride together.
