Buffalo Sabres entered Game 4 as Atlantic Division champions but still carry a playoff inexperience that showed in Montreal Canadiens. After falling behind 2‑1 in the series, the Sabres’ net‑minders Alex Lyon and Ukko‑Pekka Luukkonen have split duties, with Lyon still in goal despite conceding nine goals over the last two outings. Coach Lindy Ruff defended the decision, insisting the loss stemmed from discipline, not goaltending.

Montreal outshot Buffalo 36‑28 and won face‑offs 62.3% while capitalizing on six power‑play chances, converting two. Alex Newhook led the Habs with a pair of goals, becoming the first player with consecutive two‑goal playoff games since Mark Recchi in 1997. Cole Caufield broke a five‑goal drought, and Juraj Slafkovský added a power‑play hat trick, reinforcing Montreal’s offensive rhythm.

The Canadiens aim to clinch a 3-1 series lead, a mark they have achieved 29 straight times when reaching that point. Buffalo sits 11‑3 historically when leading 2‑1 but now faces a daunting deficit. With Newhook’s hot streak and disciplined special teams, Montreal appears poised to take control, leaving Buffalo’s hopes hanging on Game 4. If Montreal secures the win, they will move within one game of the Eastern Conference final.