Ryan McLeod forced a turnover and lofted a pass from the left half wall through the offensive zone to set up Byram’s one-timer during the opening minute of the second period, cushion that proved valuable after Ridly Greig scored to bring the Senators back within one ahead of intermission.

The Sabres were the aggressor against an Ottawa team that entered the night leading the NHL in hits per game. They outhit the Senators 19-14 and emerged from the period with a 1-0 lead.