Can the Bruins find their offensive scoring prowess again against a Sabres team that has been barely treading water this season? This seems like it could be a great opportunity for them to take advantage of a team that does not have a goalie with Goals Against Average under 3.0 and all have a save percentage under .900. The Bruins' scoring has dried up the last few games averaging just 1.75 goals scored per game over their four-game losing streak. Look for players like Jake Debrusk and Hampus Lindholm to start finding their offense against the Sabres helping out David Pastrnak and Brad Marchand carry the offensive load.
The Bruins have had one of the best Penalty Kill units in the League. Before their losing streak they had the best PK percentage at 87.5. However over their last five games (4 losses) they have had the 5th worst PK and have taken 25 penalties which is also the 5th most in that span. Cutting down on the penalties and playing more disciplined hockey will automatically make those numbers better. They also need to get back to the aggressive penalty killing we have been accustomed to seeing over the first part of the year. Facing on of the worst power plays in the league should help them do that as the Sabres are near the bottom of the league with a 14.1 power play percentage.
Look for the Bruins to really start looking at how they can make this team better to form a deep playoff run. The trade deadline is still 2 months away, however in order to make deals where players are involved, they need to look attractive to other teams. Jake Debrusk's name keeps coming up in trade rumors given his steep drop off in play. Possibly a change of scenery would be best for the struggling forward, however the way he is playing right now it's hard to think the Bruins would get much back for him. Look for the coaches to put him in a position to help him turn his game around and find his previously very consistent scoring touch.
Whoever starts in goal tonight, the Bruins should be confident they will get a good showing. Both Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman have been outstanding in the first part of the season and hope to continue their efforts after the holiday break. Sitting towards the top of the league both in Save percentage and GAA, these goalies give the Bruins a chance to win every time they step on the ice.
