The Montreal Canadiens look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead when they host the Buffalo Sabres tonight at the Bell Centre. Game 4 of the second-round playoff series is set for 7:30 p.m. EDT.
Montreal enters the contest with momentum after a 4-2 victory in Game 3 on Sunday. Kirby Dach scored the game-winning goal in the third period, while goaltender Jake Allen made 28 saves. The Canadiens have won two straight after dropping the series opener.
Sabres Turn to Luukkonen in Goal
Buffalo will start goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen in net, replacing Alex Lyon after back-to-back blowout losses in Games 2 and 3. The Sabres surrendered 11 goals in those two games, including six in a 6-1 defeat in Game 2.
The Sabres are looking to rebound and even the series before heading back to Buffalo for Game 5. Coach Don Granato emphasized the need for better defensive play and discipline after his team took several costly penalties in Game 3.
Canadiens' Depth Shines
Montreal has received contributions from throughout the lineup, with Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Josh Anderson each recording multiple points in the series. The Canadiens' power play has been effective, converting on three of nine opportunities.
Defensively, Montreal has limited Buffalo's top scorers, including Tage Thompson and Jeff Skinner, who have been held to a combined two points in the series.
Game 4 promises to be a pivotal matchup as both teams vie for control of the series. A Canadiens win would put them one victory away from advancing to the conference finals.
