The Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres return to KeyBank Center for Game 2 of their second-round Stanley Cup Playoffs series after an intense Game 1 that reinforced just how evenly matched these two teams are.

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How to watch Montreal Canadiens vs Buffalo Sabres

• Date: Friday, May 8, 2026

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The Sabres took the opener by a 4-2 score behind another fast-paced offensive performance and a strong defensive effort late in the third period. Buffalo jumped out early with a 2-0 lead while being aggressive on the forecheck and carried momentum throughout much of the night, while the Canadiens struggled to generate consistent offensive pressure until late in the game. The win continued Buffalo’s impressive postseason run after eliminating the Boston Bruins in the first round.

One major story entering Game 2 remains the status of forward Sam Carrick for Buffalo. Carrick has been working his way back from injury and could potentially return to the lineup during this series. His physicality and veteran presence would give the Sabres another layer of depth as they look to take control of the matchup before the series shifts to Montreal.

Both teams showed in Game 1 that they can generate offense in transition, but Game 2 could come down to goaltending and special teams.

The Canadiens know stealing a road game before heading home could completely shift the pressure in the series, while the Sabres understand the importance of protecting home ice and building a commanding lead before the series moves north of the border.

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With both franchises looking to continue surprising playoff runs, Game 2 between the Canadiens and Sabres has all the ingredients of another high-intensity postseason battle that NHL fans will not want to miss.

Watch Canadiens vs Sabres Game 2 Live on TNT via DIRECTV

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