*10* NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH on the Colorado Avalanche.

The Buffalo Sabres managed to put an end to a four-game slide as they defeated the Habs 6-4 Friday. I think they'll be back to their losing ways tonight though as they host a Colorado Avalanche team looking to complete three-game trip with a perfect record.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Situational - The Avs defeated the Sens 4-3 at Ottawa Thursday before claiming a 3-2 shootout victory at Detroit the next day. This might look like a rough spot at first glance, but the Avs are 5-0 in their last five in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation and they've won five of their last six on the road.

2. Home Woes - The Sabres have won just two of their last 11 home at First Niagara Center and they've dropped five straight when playing host to Colorado.

3. X-Factor - Colorado's Semyon Varlamov made 43 saves Friday and he's posted a 1.84 GAA and a .950 SV% while winning seven of eight on the road.

Selection: This is a play on the Colorado Avalanche (10*)