Sabres Surge: McLeod, Defense Power Playoff Push

0:00With the NHL today, March 6th, the Buffalo Sabers had a wild 24 hours recently. Colton Parryco blocked a trade to the team by using his no-trade claws. Hours later, they pulled off a deal with the Winnipeg Jets to acquire Ryan McLeod. On top of that, they crushed the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-1, jumping into a tie for first place in the Atlantic Division. Owen Power is really finding his stride on defense. He's using his size smarter to steer opponents wide and is skating to drive play-up ice. Alongside Rasmus Dalin, Matthias Samuelson, and Boen Byrum, Buffalo's top four defenseman rank among the league's best at creating offense while shutting down foes. Fans and analysts are buzzing about how this strengthens the Sabers for a playoff push. Dalin has 53 points. Samuelson is hitting career highs in tough minutes, and Byrum is nearing his points record. The new trade gives these guys some much-needed rest each night to stay fresh.

1:00Special teams stole the show when the penguins win. McLeod scored his league-leading fifth-short-handed goal. Alex Touch added another, and they even got a power play tally. Buffalo now boasts the fourth best penalty kill in the league, with their power play sitting at a solid 17th. Looking ahead, the Sabers ride this hot streak into a five-game homestand against mostly non-playoff teams. The highlight is Sunday's clash with the Tampa Bay Lightning, which could shake up the standings even more. Support for this DNN episode comes from our sponsor. If sleep podcasts are your thing, this is your pillow. Built for comfort and calm, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.