Tue Dec 24 02:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Sabres Aim for Holiday Break Win Against Islanders After 13-Game Winless Streak

**ELMONT, NY** – The Buffalo Sabres, currently on a 13-game winless streak (0-10-3), face a crucial matchup against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on Monday night. A victory before their three-day holiday break is paramount for a team desperate to end their slump.

“Our job is to win hockey games, and we haven’t done so in a really long time,” said Sabres alternate captain Alex Tuch. The team’s last win came on November 23rd against the San Jose Sharks.

Despite the lengthy losing streak, there were positive signs in Saturday’s 3-1 loss to the Boston Bruins. The Sabres played a strong 50 minutes, showcasing improved defensive play and battling hard throughout the game. JJ Peterka scored a power-play goal to tie the game, but a late goal by Boston’s Morgan Geekie ultimately sealed the Sabres’ fate.

Defenseman Connor Clifton highlighted the team’s effort, stating, “We played really good hockey. We competed, we won battles, we bought into our system.”

The Sabres will be boosted by the return of captain Rasmus Dahlin, who missed Saturday’s game. Dahlin confirmed his readiness for Monday’s contest.

The Islanders, coming off a 6-3 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs, pose a significant challenge. They hold a 4-1 record against the Sabres at UBS Arena and boast offensive threats like captain Anders Lee (27 points this season) and Bo Horvat (25 points). The Islanders already defeated the Sabres twice this season.

Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. The game will be televised locally on MSG and streamed nationally on ESPN+.

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