Game 40

Penguins (26-12-1, 53 pts) at Sabres (23-11-4, 50 pts)

Why does it matter?
The Sabres are tough, and this time they'll likely start Ryan Miller and have the services of Tomas Vanek. It should be a fun game to watch.

What has been happening lately?

• Pens - The Pens have lost two of their past three games, all at home, which isn't good for a team about to play 9 of the next 11 on the road.
• Sabres - Beginning with the recent loss to the Pens, the Sabres have been floundering a bit. They may have righted the ship with their recent 5-3 win in St Louis.

Questions to be answered

• Can the power play stay hot? The Sabres are excellent recently at home in killing penalties, and the Pens are not good on the road with the man advantage.
  
• Can the Pens solve Ryan Miller, he of the insane .935 save percentage?
  
• I'm still looking for a shut out from a Pens goalie. Can they get one? (this question is staying here until they do)
  

Keys to the game

• The Sabres will allow lots of shots. Show some patience and make Miller move side to side.
• Give Johnson some support and focus on back-checking.
  
• Faceoff wins are key since both of these teams play a puck possession game.