Connolly, Leafs Storm Into Buffalo

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Updated: December 16, 2011

There is just one team in the Eastern Conference who the Sabres have yet to play this season. Starting tonight, the Sabres and Maple Leafs have six meeting ahead of them.

Toronto has surprised some people this season, as they were leading the Conference for some time. They have slipped down, but still remain two points ahead of Buffalo and in 6th in the Conference.

The Leafs have won the last three meetings, but that was after the Sabres took the first three during the 2010-2011 season.

The most important player to keep an eye on for tonight’s game is Tim Connolly. The former Sabre has put up 15 points (6 G, 9 A ) in 18 games this season for Toronto.

Since he left, Buffalo have dealt with numerous injuries, which made it seem as if Connolly were a lightning rod during his time on the Sabres.

The Sabres can move into a tie with the Leafs with a regulation win tonight, but it will be no easy task. Saying that the Sabres have struggled at home is an understatement.

This is the last game of a five game homestand for Buffalo, who have gone 1-1-2 through the first four games.

The Sabres still have two games against Ottawa and another meeting against Toronto this month, so now would be a good time to start reeling in some wins.

Tonight’s faceoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the First Niagara Center.

Goaltenders:
Goaltender Record Sv % GAA Shutouts
James Reimer vs. BUF 3-1 .898 3.60 0
Ryan Miller vs. TOR 24-11 .928 2.28 4

 

Sabres Leading Scorers:
Player GP G A P
Jason Pominville 30 10 22 32
Thomas Vanek 30 14 15 29
Derek Roy 30 7 13 20
Luke Adam 30 9 10 19
Drew Stafford 29 5 10 15

 

Maple Leafs Leading Scorers:
Player GP G A P
Phil Kessel 30 18 18 36
Joffrey Lupul 30 13 21 34
Tyler Bozak 28 6 12 18
Dion Phaneuf 30 3 15 18
John-Michael Liles 30 3 14 17

 

Special Teams:
Team Power Play NHL Rank Penalty Kill NHL Rank
Buffalo Sabres 16.5% 18th 86.4% 8th
Toronto Maple Leafs 21.1% 4th 74.1% 30th

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