33.6 -- The number of shots the Sabres are averaging. Only the Flyers (34.1) have averaged more. Last year, Buffalo averaged 24.2, the lowest in the NHL. The Sabres have also dramatically cut down the shots against, from 35.6 to 26.8. While they’ve only been rewarded with three wins, the evidence of improvement is obvious. Buffalo is no easy opponent anymore.
.892 -- Washington’s team save percentage. Not what you’d expect from a team with a 6-2-0 record. But that’s how dangerous the Caps have been offensively, and also how good they’ve been defensively. Washington is surrendering just 24.3 shots per game, the lowest in the league. That’s allowed Braden Holtby to be good (.917), but not great (15 starters have a higher save percentage), and still boast a 5-2-0 record.
.923 -- The Islanders’ team save percentage, tied for eighth. When was the last time the Isles ranked so highly in this stat? They were 26th last year, at .903. Individually, Jaroslav Halak (.940) has been excellent, and Thomas Greiss (.926) has been almost as good in a backup role. If there’s a concern, it’s that the Isles are giving up 32.6 shots per game, the fourth most in the league.
4 -- Times the Canucks have led after two periods and failed to win. They did it again last night in Dallas, blowing a 3-1 third-period lead and falling 4-3 in overtime. It was also the fourth time they’ve lost in overtime. This early in the season, that’s a lot of points left on the table. On the bright side, Vancouver only has two regulation losses.
14.2 -- Boston’s shooting percentage, the highest in the NHL. Last year, Calgary finished with the highest, at 10.4. Which is to say, it’s probably not sustainable for the Bruins. Nor for that matter is the Ducks’ insanely low rate of 3.6. Last year, Arizona finished with the lowest, at 6.9.