What happened: ESPN highlighted a slick passing sequence that put the Buffalo Sabres in front of the Montreal Canadiens early in their nationally televised matchup. The play extended Buffalo's pattern of fast starts in the series, with the goal coming inside the opening stretch of action.

Why it matters: Jumping ahead early shifts momentum and forces Montreal to chase the game, a script the Canadiens have struggled with against Buffalo's transition game in this series. The early lead also gives the Sabres a chance to dictate pace and lean on their forecheck, the formula that produced Tage Thompson's opening-minute strike in Game 3.

What to watch: Watch whether Buffalo can sustain the early pressure rather than ceding momentum after the first period. Montreal's response in the middle frame will signal whether this becomes a one-sided night or a tighter contest.