Mon Nov 11 18:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Buffalo Sabres Aim for Fourth Straight Win Against Struggling Canadiens

The Buffalo Sabres are looking to extend their winning streak to four games when they host the Montreal Canadiens at KeyBank Center on Monday afternoon. The game marks the team’s annual Military Appreciation game, with tributes to veterans and fundraisers for the Tunnel for Towers Foundation.

The Sabres have found their identity in recent games, emphasizing physicality, strong special teams, tight defense, and timely saves. “I think it’s just showing the amount of time and effort that we put into our game, what we want it to look like,” said forward Beck Malenstyn.

Defenseman Mattias Samuelsson will return to the lineup after a three-game absence, replacing Dennis Gilbert. Coach Lindy Ruff expects Samuelsson to contribute with strong first passes, penalty killing, and physical play.

The Sabres’ current winning streak follows three consecutive losses. The key to their turnaround has been a commitment to detail and a balanced approach. “I think sticking with our process, just continuing to harp on those small details, we ironed those things out and we’ve looked like a really good hockey team these last three games,” explained Malenstyn.

The team’s special teams have been particularly strong, with the power play scoring at least one goal in six of the last seven games and the penalty kill proving perfect in the last three games. “It’s a simple recipe but it’s hard to do sometimes I think,” said Malenstyn, highlighting the fine line between aggression and patience.

The Canadiens, on the other hand, are struggling, having lost their last six games. Their poor defense has resulted in the highest goals-against average in the NHL. Cole Caufield leads the Canadiens in scoring with 10 goals, while Brendan Gallagher enters the game on a three-game goal streak.

The Sabres will be hoping to capitalize on the Canadiens’ struggles and continue their winning ways in front of their home crowd. Puck drop is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. ET.

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