The Montreal Canadiens have found their offensive groove at just the right time, and they're looking to take a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Buffalo Sabres in Tuesday's Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.

After a stunning regular season that saw them win the Atlantic Division and snap a 15-year playoff drought, the Sabres are now facing a harsh reality check. Their lack of postseason experience, a concern many had entering the playoffs, is beginning to show against a seasoned Montreal squad that leads the series 2-1.

Goaltending has become a major storyline for Buffalo. Alex Lyon, the 33-year-old journeyman who was stellar in the first round against Boston and in Game 1 of this series, has hit a wall. After allowing just seven goals across his previous seven playoff appearances, Lyon has surrendered nine over the last two games, including five in Sunday's 6-2 loss. The question now is whether head coach Lindy Ruff will turn back to Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who started the postseason but was pulled early in Game 2 of the first round. Ruff defended Lyon after Sunday's loss, but with the series on the line, a change between the pipes could be coming.

The Sabres' discipline has also been a glaring issue. Tage Thompson finally ended an eight-game goal drought by scoring just 53 seconds into Game 3, but Buffalo quickly unraveled. The Sabres took 13 penalties for 42 minutes, handing Montreal six power-play opportunities, two of which they converted. Montreal dominated every facet of the game, outshooting Buffalo 36-28, outhitting them 25-21, and winning a staggering 62.3% of faceoffs.

Thompson acknowledged the team's emotional struggles, admitting, "I think we got a little too emotional. We talk about it all the time: just staying even-keeled through highs and lows. I thought we really let our emotions get the better of us."

For Montreal, finding their offensive rhythm couldn't have come at a better time. After scoring just one goal in their Game 1 loss, the Canadiens have erupted for 11 goals over the last two games, and they'll look to carry that momentum into Tuesday night. A win would give them a 3-1 series lead and put Buffalo on the brink of elimination.

History isn't on the Sabres' side either: they're just 11-3 all-time when leading a series 2-1, but with their inexperience showing and Montreal's offense clicking, Game 4 could be a defining moment for this young Buffalo squad.