The Buffalo Sabres have started their 2008-09 season off on the right foot, winning in close fashion with a 2-1 shootout victory over the Montreal Canadiens. 

Thomas Vanek tied the score at one apiece in the first period, about five minutes after Montreal's Robert Lang scored his goal. That's how the score stayed for the next two periods, plus an overtime frame.

What the game lacked in scoring was made up for in excitement.  Both goalies—Ryan Miller for the Sabres and Carey Price for the Canadiens—were spectacular, with Miller making 27 saves, including four in the overtime period, the only period that the Canadiens out-shot the Sabres.  Carey Price put on a show of his own, saving 35 of the 36 shots that came his way.

The nightmares that Buffalo may have had about shootouts last year may be over, as both shooters for Buffalo scored, allowing them to win in the shootout 2-0.  Ales Kotalik did his signature shootout move, faking to the right before switching to his backhand to put one past Carey Price.  Drew Stafford only widened Buffalo's lead on his goal, making Saku Koivu's chance a do-or-die situation. 

Concerns for Buffalo include Tim Connolly, who is still out with a back injury.

Teppo Numminen picked up an assist on Thomas Vanek's goal in his first game back in Buffalo since the Sabres played Ottawa in Game Five of the Eastern Confernce Finals.  After missing the playoffs last season, it seems the Sabres are driven to do well this season in order to get back into playoff contention again.