Despite being winless in their last four games, the Sabres were noticeably in good spirits both on the ice and in the dressing room on Tuesday morning. Buffalo is about to begin a string of three-straight games against conference finalists from last season in St. Louis, Tampa Bay and Pittsburgh.
"I did like the way our team was out on the ice today and we should be excited," Bylsma said. "We're challenged with playing a couple of tough teams in a row here starting with St. Louis tonight. We've got a pretty big challenge ahead of us the next three games and I think it's one we should be excited for."
The Blues have had success in recent seasons, but they're currently in the midst of a three-game losing streak. Their most recent loss was an 8-4 blowout in Columbus in which goalies Jake Allen and Carter Hutton gave up four goals apiece. Allen will start in net against the Sabres, who will look to exploit any reservations that may have carried over from that game.
"I think both teams are feeling that way," Bylsma said. "We need to get out to a start early. Maybe if we can get one on them, even if it can bounce off a skate in, maybe get them questioning a bit, I think that's an opportunity we can come out and take advantage of."