Game #6 - vs Buffalo Sabres

2011-12 Game 6

Buffalo Sabres (2-1-0, 4 points) at Pittsburgh Penguins (3-0-2, 8 points)

The Sabres' offense is a team effort, led by Thomas Vanek.

Why does it matter?

The Pens have owned the Sabres lately in Pittsburgh.  This is the start of a tough stretch of five games in eight days, so it's important to get off to a good start.

What has been happening lately?

• Pens - Each game has yielded at least one point, but the way the Caps game ended left a bad taste in everyone's mouth.
• Sabres - A bad loss last night to the Canes, after tying the game with 2:21 remaining, the Sabres took a penalty (Vanek for tripping) and Skinner notched the game winner on the ensuing power play.  Talk about a bad taste...

Questions to be answered

• How will Geno hold up with a bunch of games in front of him?
• How is Fleury feeling, and did he lose any weight with the flu?  That can be a concern for goalies.
• Can the Pens continue their mastery of Ryan Miller, assuming that's who they see tonight?

Keys to the game

• Focus on the PK.  After allowing a power play goal in OT to the Caps, the Pens need to re-double their efforts on the PK to shut things down.  The Sabres have been clicking at over 20% so far this season.
• Keep the chances to the outside.  Both teams managed over 40 shots in their last game - this could be all offense.
• Stop Jason Pominville, who has been very good against the Pens the last few years (5 goals in 12 games).