It's not working on the New York side as the puzzling downturn continued in Monday's loss to the lowly Blackhawks. That makes eight losses in ten as Peter Laviolette cannot seem to find the answers. Many observers point to defensive deficiencies, which Laviolette seems to be aware, but by slowing down he pace to protect the defense, the swashbuckling side of the New York offense can suffer, as the case in the 2-01 loss to Chicago. Worth noting, however, that the Monday loss was not the fault of Igor Shesterkin, who has been good enough in goal since signing his contract extension last week, surrendering only 2 vs. both the Penguins and Sabres. At the moment, Buffalo doesn't offer much more to recommend than New York, as the Sabres are now winless in seven, and goalie Ukko Pekka Luukkonen struggling (4.27 GAA in December). UPL, however, did shut down the Rangers in a 6-1 win back on November 7, stopping 25 of 26 shots. Play Rangers-Sabres "Under"