Buffalo full value for 4-3 win

Here is the statistic that explains the game … or at least the final result of the game:

Around halfway through the first period, the Canadians scored seven shots on goal, as did Buffalo.

From that moment, the Sabers dominated the visitors 35-15. In the third period, the Canadians had four shots.

So, despite Max Domi's exploits – including the goal of the third period, which gave the Canadiens an undeserved lead – the home team played well for the win.

Yes, as it has been since the beginning of the season, Canadians have been the fastest.

But not much faster.

And the home team dominated all other aspects of the match.

Especially the board game. Buffalo enjoyed long periods of possession of the ball in the Canadiens' area by continually battling with pucks along the wall and behind the net.

The result: excellent chances to score.

If it were not the heroes of Antti Niemi, the match would have been played and dusted well before the winner of Kyle Okposo in power games late in the game.

You will not win very often by giving up 42 shots, many of which are of high quality.

And if you are dominated, it is not good to take bad penalties.

As Andrew Shaw did in the second period, the Canadians took a 2-1 lead.

There are different opinions on Shaw at TSN990.

Unsurprisingly, Chris Nilan loves this rambling winger.

Tony Marinaro does not do it. And I'm with Tony.

I want Charles Hudon back in training on Saturday. And I want Shaw to sit down.

But if Claude Julien is true to his form, the number 65 will be registered.

"They were better than us tonight," said the coach in an article on The Ante-room. "They won battles along the wall. They were the first on free pucks.

Julien's commentary on Shaw was that the costly penalty was undeserved.

It's great to support your players, coach, but go …

A statistic to boost fans' morale:

Max Domi's second goal was his fourth of the season.

Last season in Arizona, Domi scored his fourth goal in the 56th Coyotes game on Feb. 12.

This business, man …

Some statistics:

• Phillip Danault played 16-8 in the face offs and Jesperi Kotkaniemi had a score of 4-5, which is an improvement for the child.

• Another solid exit for Xavier Ouellet, who played 19:20. Who plays with whom – on which side – and who sits when Shea Weber returns?

• Jeff Petry took seven shots. Five were blocked and two missed the net.

On the way to Boston …