In a crucial Metropolitan Division matchup, the Philadelphia Flyers (36-29-11) will face off against the Buffalo Sabres (36-35-5) on Friday at KeyBank Center. With both teams vying for playoff spots, this game holds significant importance as the Flyers aim to break their winless streak.

The Flyers enter this contest clinging on to third place in the Metropolitan Division, edging out the New York Islanders with a tiebreaker based on regulation wins. They are just one point ahead of the Washington Capitals and two points ahead of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Additionally, the Flyers are holding a slim one-point lead in the wildcard race over the Detroit Red Wings.

Philadelphia has struggled lately, going winless in their last five games, including a disappointing overtime loss to the Islanders on Monday. With just six games remaining in the regular season, the Flyers are desperate to regain their winning form and secure a playoff berth.

On the other hand, the Sabres are coming off a solid 6-2 victory against the Capitals on Tuesday. They have won three out of their last five games and will look to continue their positive momentum against their division rivals. With a 19-19-1 record on home ice this season, the Sabres will rely on their improved defensive play and the solid goaltending of Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.

Heading into the matchup, here are five key factors to watch:

1. Patience and Persistence: The Sabres have shown improved defensive discipline since the All-Star break, ranking in the top one-third of the NHL with a low team goals against average. The Flyers will need to approach the game with patience and a persistent attacking mindset to break through Buffalo's defensive structure.

2. All Hands on Deck: The Flyers will be without center Sean Couturier, who is sidelined with an upper body injury. It will be crucial for the rest of the team to step up and contribute offensively. Travis Konecny leads the team in points since the All-Star break, and players like Owen Tippett and Morgan Frost will need to continue their strong offensive performances.

3. Flyers Power Play vs. Sabres Penalty Kill: The Flyers' power play has struggled recently, converting only 12.9 percent of their opportunities over the last 10 games. On the other hand, the Sabres' penalty kill has been relatively solid, ranking 16th in the league overall. The Flyers' power play unit will need to find ways to capitalize on their chances.

4. Flyers Penalty Kill vs. Sabres Power Play: The Flyers have excelled on the penalty kill this season and lead the league with 15 shorthanded goals. They will look to maintain their strong performance against the Sabres' power play, which has struggled, ranking 28th in the NHL.

5. Behind Enemy Lines: The Sabres boast a strong offensive core, led by defenseman Rasmus Dahlin and forwards Alex Tuch and Tage Thompson. However, Thompson has recently found his scoring touch, recording six goals in his last five games. The Flyers' defense will need to contain Buffalo's potent attack.

With playoff implications on the line, both teams will battle fiercely to secure a victory. The Flyers look to break their winless streak and solidify their playoff position, while the Sabres aim to continue their positive momentum towards a potential postseason berth. The puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. EDT, and the game will be televised on NBCSP.