Buffalo Sabres coach Lindy Ruff reminisced about the team’s history against the Montreal Canadiens as they prepare for a second-round playoff series, having recently ended a 14-season playoff drought. Both teams, ranked in the NHL’s top 10 in scoring, are characterized by youth and speed, with Montreal recently defeating Tampa Bay to advance. The Sabres face power-play challenges, converting only 4.2% of opportunities in their previous series. Canadiens forward Juraj Slafkovsky reported no lingering effects from a recent hit, leading his team with three playoff goals.



