panoo

The Sports Network
2/15/2007 11:19:36 AM

(Sports Network) - The Eastern Conference-leading Buffalo Sabres aim for their fourth consecutive victory tonight, when they welcome the Edmonton Oilers to HSBC Arena.

The last two triumphs in Buffalo's three-game winning streak have come at the beginning of a season-long six-game homestand. The Sabres have won five straight on home ice and are 19-7-2 as the host club this season.

Buffalo hasn't played since Saturday's shootout victory over the Calgary Flames. Ales Kotalik netted the lone goal of the final segment and allowed the Sabres to secure the 3-2 win.

Thomas Vanek and Daniel Briere scored in regulation for the Sabres, who have five wins in their last six games. Ryan Miller, who did not allow a goal in the shootout, finished with 23 saves.

The injury bug bit the Sabres twice Saturday, as defenseman Jaroslav Spacek broke his left hand while blocking a shot against the Flames and will be sidelined indefinitely. Prior to the game, Buffalo announced that forward Paul Gaustad will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an ankle injury earlier in the week.

Buffalo has 80 points and is four points ahead of New Jersey for the Eastern Conference lead. The club is also one point behind Nashville for the best record in the league.

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