Rangers Face Sabres in Key Playoff Matchup

The New York Rangers are set to face the Buffalo Sabres at 5:30 pm ET, with both teams seeking to improve their playoff standings. The Rangers, boasting a record of 27-24-4, are currently favored by -1.5 goals after a strong 5-2 win against the Islanders, where Artemi Panarin scored twice and Igor Shesterkin made 35 saves. The Sabres, struggling with a 22-27-5 record, welcome back key players including Jordan Greenway and Mattias Samuelsson, who are returning from injuries. Coach Lindy Ruff aims for the Sabres to finish the season with a record of at least 15 wins in their remaining 27 games. The matchup is crucial for both teams, as they are currently outside the playoff race, with the Sabres in eighth and the Rangers in fifth place in their respective divisions. The game will be broadcasted on ESPN+ and presents a critical opportunity for both teams to gain momentum in the final stretch of the season.