While not the most “exciting” Winter Classic matchup, the game itself did not disappoint. The Rangers took a two-goal lead 10 minutes into the first. In typical Rangers fashion, however, they blew the lead and went to overtime where J.T. Miller scored the game-winning goal.
The first period began with an almost immediate penalty by the Sabres for roughing. While the Rangers did not score on the power play, it got their gears turning. Paul Carey scored five minutes in to put the Rangers up 1-0. Michael Grabner scored four minutes later to give the Rangers an early two-goal lead.