If the Sabres want to get back in the playoff picture, they're going to have to start winning against the teams ahead of them in the Eastern Conference. They did just that on Thursday night as they defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 3-2.
The Sabres got on the board first as Nathan Gerbe scored his 2nd goal of the year in the 1st period to give the Sabres the 1-0 lead.
In the 2nd period, Tuomo Ruutu tied the game up for Carolina on a power-play goal for his 12th tally of the year.
But the game would not remain tied for long. Soon after Carolina scored, Cody McCormick added his second goal in as many nights to put the Sabres ahead 2-1.
The game entered the 3rd period with the Sabres ahead 2-1 when they decided to score another goal to increase there lead to two.
Drew Stafford scored on a power play goal to put the Sabres up 3-1. Thomas Vanek added his 2nd assist of the night on the goal.
Carolina tried to get back into the game on a Jeff Skinner goal with under a minute to play but it was too little too late as the Sabres went on to win 3-2.
It was an important win for the Sabres as they came into Thursday's contest 7 points back of Carolina for 9th in the Eastern Conference.
The Sabres have to be patient as they are trying to gain ground on the rest of the eastern conference. Its going to take time.
Tonight's win brings them within five points of Carolina for 9th and within eight points of Atlanta and Montreal for the 8th and final playoff spot in the eastern conference.
The Sabres next play January 15th in Long Island to take on the New York Islanders.
Attendance: 18,276
Buffalo's Record: 19-19-5 (43 points) 10th in the Eastern Conference
Points Back Of Playoffs: 8 points back of Atlanta and Montreal
Last 10: 6-3-1
Key Fact: Cody McCormick has scored in back-to-back games
Interesting Note: Nathan Gerbe has scored both of his goals this year at home
Three Stars:
1st- Thomas Vanek (Buffalo)
2nd- Cody McCormick (Buffalo)
3rd- Drew Stafford (Buffalo)
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