As recently as this weekend Sabres fans were beside themselves amidst the total lack of offense to complement the stellar play of backup goalie Patrick Lalime.  Buffalo had begun the Miller-less era with three goals in three games, concluding with the embarassing 2-0 loss to the inept Islanders.

And now here I am, a few days later, writing up a recap of the Sabres second consecutive 5-1 win. This time a pasting of (according to the PA tonight) the “National Hockey League’s Phoenix Coyotes”. Tim Connolly lit the lamp twice and the Sabres put the game away late with power play goals from Jason Pominville and Drew Stafford.

So what gives? If Lindy’s words mean anything it’s about Lalime. Ruff was throwing out statements such as “He made some really nice saves when the game was right there” and “Patty gave us a lot of momentum”.

Indeed, the new look Coyotes were fresh off a huge road win over the Eastern Conference leading Bruins last night. While they did play much of the first two periods a bit fatigued, they were able to regain their energy as the game progressed.  The Coyotes put the Sabres into the penalty box over and over in period two as they had five man advantage opportunities. But the Sabres penalty kill was up to the task in taking care of all five of them.  And thanks to a Tim Connolly power play goal took a 3-0 lead into the final stanza.

The Sabres welcomed Dominic Moore into the lineup tonight and fared well for one who hadn’t even been able to practice with the team. You’ll see him on faceoffs quite a bit as that is one of his strengths.

With the win Buffalo now has 73 points, one point back of the eighth and final playoff spot. Carolina remains tied with Buffalo thanks to their 6-1 pummeling of the Calgary Flames. I’m guessing all that new talent hasn’t quite gelled yet.

Taro Sez:

The Eastern Conference playoff race is a logjam with just two points separating fifth place Montreal from the Sabres and ‘Canes in ninth an tenth.

Have to admit, you see plenty of current and former greats walking the halls underneath the arena through the years. But there’s still something a bit special about seeing Wayne Gretzky that’s different from the rest.

Next up, Ottawa tommorow night @ the ScotiaBank Place followed by a Tuesday night game in Philly. 17 games to go!

-pjf