The Buffalo Sabres: What Happened to Them?

What in the world happened to the Buffalo Sabres? Eight Days ago they were 9-3-3 and leading the division with 21 points.  Now they are 9-6-3 and sitting third behind Boston, who are now 1-2 against and Montreal. Eight Days ago they had a +11 goal differential.  It appeared that the players have bought into Lindy Ruff's method of two way hockey.  Three games later their goal differential is ZERO.  They have been outscored 18-7 against Columbus, Pittsburgh, and Boston.  Now those three teams are not exactly slouches and have some notables on the offense. I expect all three of them to make the playoffs but I thought the Sabres were too. This has not been a good measuring stick for Buffalo's defensive play.  They have clearly regressed to their old style.  As only four players are on the positive side of the +/-.  With Max being the worst at -8. In addition to injuries to certain players, other players (not named Thomas Vanek) have not helped ... (link)