Paul Hamilton Reports: Leafs and Sabres battle for the first time.
Paul Hamilton Reporting
Buffalo, NY (WGR 550) -- The Leafs decided to not have their morning skate in Buffalo and leave from Toronto today. The club had its' Christmas party yesterday. It's the first time Toronto and Buffalo played this season.
Lindy Ruff didn't mention his line-up and no forwards got any extra work at the Sabres optional skate. Ruff usually won't mess with a winning line-up so there's a good chance it'll be the same as it was in wins over Tampa Bay and Pittsburgh. Ryan Miller will make his 6th straight start. In that span, he's put up a 2.80 goals against and a .911 save percentage.
Thomas Vanek is on a three game goal scoring streak. Dating back to last season, Vanek has scored 45 goals in his last 61 games.
The Leafs beat the Islanders four days ago, but have lost three out of their last four. Vesa Toskala has played in seven straight games and 15 of 16. Leafs coach Ron Wilson had him in San Jose, but the extra playing time has not helped his numbers. Toskala's save percentage is a very poor .887.
In case you missed it, Western New York native Lee Stempniak is now in Toronto. The winger has scored just one goal and two assists in eight games since being acquired from St.Louis.
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