'We have to reset': Sabres look to bounce back in Game 4 against Canadiens

May 11, 2026 - 21:25

The Buffalo Sabres are trying to hit the reset button after a rough stretch against the Montreal Canadiens. Following two straight losses that put them in a tough spot in the series, head coach Lindy Ruff made it clear the team needs to move on quickly.

"We have to reset," Ruff said after practice. "You can't dwell on what happened. We know what we did wrong, and now it's about fixing it and coming out with a better mindset."

The Sabres started the series strong with a win in Game 1, but the Canadiens have since taken control with aggressive forechecking and sharp goaltending. Buffalo's offense has gone quiet, managing only one goal in each of the last two games. Defensive breakdowns have also cost them, with Montreal capitalizing on turnovers and odd-man rushes.

Ruff emphasized that the team's effort has been there, but the execution has not. He pointed to missed assignments and a lack of puck support as key areas to address. "It's not about systems right now. It's about winning battles and making smarter plays under pressure," he added.

Game 4 is set for Thursday night in Buffalo. The Sabres are hoping a return to home ice and a fresh start will help them even the series. Players echoed their coach's call for a clean slate, with captain Rasmus Dahlin saying the group is focused on one game at a time.

"We know what's at stake," Dahlin said. "We've been in tough spots before. It's about how we respond."