Jason Chimera also scored, and Boyd Gordon added an empty-net goal for Washington. Hours after acquiring four players at the trade deadline, the NHL-leading Capitals (42-13-8) snapped a three-game losing streak in their first game following the Olympic break.
Miller made 37 saves in his first start since leading the United States to a silver medal and being selected the tournament MVP three days ago. He received a 45-second pregame standing ovation from the hometown fans, but was unable to help the Sabres shake out of their slumber.
Buffalo (33-20-9) fell to 1-6-2 in its last nine games, and has won just three times in regulation since Jan. 18, a span of 16 games.
Jochen Hecht scored for the Sabres, who remain one point behind Ottawa for the Northeast Division lead.
Green gave the Capitals a 2-1 lead midway through the third period when he one-timed a shot past Miller from the slot.
Chimera opened the scoring when he deflected Jeff Schultz’s shot from the right point with 4:37 left in the second period.
Hecht tied it a minute later when he picked up a loose puck from the right circle and snapped a shot past Theodore.
Notes
Lindy Ruff coached in his 964th career game with the Sabres, tying Jack Adams for third on the NHL list for most games coached with one franchise. … Sabres C Paul Gaustad missed his first game after sustaining an upper-body injury Tuesday against Pittsburgh. He is expected to be out at least a week. … Hecht’s goal gave him 400 career NHL points. … Washington had been shutout in two of its last three games in Buffalo coming in.