Buffalo Sabres
Toronto Maple Leafs: Five Thoughts On Leafs v. Sabres
Buffalo Sabres

Toronto Maple Leafs: Five Thoughts On Leafs v. Sabres

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 9:09 p.m. ET

The Toronto Maple Leafs play host to the Buffalo Sabres tonight, who are currently in 14th in the Eastern Conference.

Here are some thoughts on the Toronto Maple Leafs versus Buffalo Sabres game.

1) James van Riemsdyk playing his 500th NHL game. Having the best season of his career, JVR hits a huge milestone against Buffalo. He’s a big part of the offense for the Leafs this year amidst rampant rumors regarding his future. He’s been nothing but a pro since coming to Toronto and is one of the most underrated players around the league.

2) Buffalo might be 14th, but they aren’t that far behind. The Eastern Conference is extremely tight. As of right now, no team in the East is below .500. That’s incredible parity. The Sabres, 14th, are only seven points back of Toronto for third in the Atlantic and only five points back of Philadelphia for a wildcard spot. They’re still not as good as Toronto, but it’s a short fall to the basement if the Leafs don’t continue to get points.

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3) Auston Matthews has six points in his last 11 games, including a three point night against Boston. Tonight provides Matthews with a chance to keep his production on track. Look for him to have a big night against a team he hasn’t had much success against so far (one goal in two games).

4) Frederik Andersen has a .943 save percentage against the Sabres so far this season. He’s lined up for a good game to get himself back on track after playing solid against St. Louis.

5) There’s a new rumor out, but it involves management and not a player. Kevin McGran is betting that Red Wings GM Ken Holland becomes Leafs GM in the post-Lamoriello era that is coming up soon. How is that related to tonight’s game? It isn’t, but it’s something to argue about in the comment section, so you’re welcome.

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