The previously red-hot Buffalo Sabres, who skyrocketed up the NHL standings by winning 20 out of 24 games, suddenly cooled off right before the Olympic break. Their loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday night marked their third defeat in the past four contests.
One significant problem has emerged: defensive depth. Michael Kesselring was on the ice for three of the Penguins' four even-strength goals. Jacob Bryson was out there for two before getting essentially stapled to the bench (4:19 in total ice time).
"That pair had a tough night. That was part of it," Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff told reporters.