Ben Case: Sweeping the Sabres Away and Taking on the Islanders The Canes got their brooms out last night and swept the Sabres in the three-game season series with a 5-2 win. Last night was exciting beyond the win for the Canes—it was Cam Ward’s 600th start, Jeff Skinner had a three-point night to register his 300th point and it was Coach Peters’ birthday. In addition, the Canes are now on a three-game winning streak and are 13-1-1 in their last 15-home games.

The Staal looked great last night. The team looked great for the 1st five minutes and then Buffalo scored. They seemed to lose their confidence after that and played passively. The team took off after some good saves by Ward and the 2 quick goals by Skins.

Lindholm seems to be better off when he isnt a center. I thought he did well on the top line wing slot.

Concerns:
Both goals on misplays, Slavin and Ward. Slavin's may have been a lack of communication from his team mates.

Teams seem to be targeting Aho for abuse. The slugs did it a bunch last night. Its going to take a couple of seasons for him to bulk up enough to take the hits. I hope it isnt a skinner type scenario though.

PP when the team was up. Man the Slugs got a few opportunities to get back into the gane in the 3rd shorthanded. Luckily, Ward shut them down.

Trade needs:
If the team plays with this much confidence for the next 2 weeks, an O player may not be the biggest concern. A backup goaltender will be. If we expect to make playoff run we need someone else badly. O body like Hanzal may be a secondary acquisition at the deadline for insurance.

I like how they played last night but I'm always concerned when we play against Tavares. He is on a roll now and has been a Canes killer over the years. Glad the 1st game in the series vs. the Isles is at home. Keep the home streak going!

Freaking Tavares.

Huge win!

Huge win!
- gocanes0506

Not the best defensive night but solid effort on the offensive end. In spite of Tripps over the top praise of McGinn I have to admit he was impressive tonight.

Not the best defensive night but solid effort on the offensive end. In spite of Tripps over the top praise of McGinn I have to admit he was impressive tonight.
- Barbecued Hockey

McGinn has been impressive over the last 5 games. Not only on the O side but doing the small things. Its really nice to him coming through for the team.

Lindholm has also been great since returning from injury.

Overall not the prettiest win but a huge win all the same as our next 3 are tough.