The Buffalo Sabres entered Saturday’s contest against the Detroit Red Wings on the heels of a five-game losing streak.
However, after launching a successful comeback that culminated in a walk-off overtime victory, could this be a turning point for Buffalo?
Here’s a closer look at the Sabres’ improbable comeback victory in the Motor City.
Sabres Execute Gritty Comeback Victory Vs. Red Wings
Things looked somewhat even early between both teams, with the score tied 1-1 at the end of the first period. Unfortunately for Buffalo, the Sabres would surrender three consecutive goals to the Red Wings in the second, leaving the score 4-1 in favor of Detroit. Just before the end of the period, Sabres’ standout Josh Doan delivered a much-needed spark for Buffalo, potting his fifth goal of the season on a redirected shot from captain Rasmus Dahlin.
The Sabres carried their new-found momentum into the third period, with Tage Thompson scoring a highlight reel-worthy goal early in the frame to bring Buffalo within one. Later in the period, Sabres’ center Ryan McLeod stripped the puck from Red Wings’ defender Moritz Seider and proceeded to score the team’s third shorthanded goal of the year, evening the affair at 4-4.
After successfully killing off a controversial penalty in the closing minutes of the third period, the Sabres pushed things to overtime, where they would complete the comeback. 1:05 into the extra frame, Buffalo’s Tage Thompson imposed his will on Detroit’s Alex DeBrincat, delivering a massive hit before securing possession of the puck. Thompson would then dish a show-stopping pass to teammate Mattias Samuelsson in the slot, who proceeded to blast a shot past Detroit netminder John Gibson to secure the much-needed victory for the Sabres.
The Stars Shine In Detroit
The Sabres’ top-line, made up of Alex Tuch, Tage Thompson and Ryan McLeod, has been the subject of much criticism as of late. However, the Sabres’ lead dogs flexed their muscles on Saturday night, quieting the doubters and leading their team to victory in the Motor City.
Veteran wing Alex Tuch got things rolling early for the Sabres, potting his seventh goal of the year during the first period of Saturday’s victory in Detroit. Amidst plenty of discussion regarding his contract and overall future in Buffalo, Tuch has quietly been playing some quality hockey, providing a much-needed boost both offensively and on the penalty kill.
Tage Thompson’s stunning performance on Saturday night was easily his best of the year. The 28-year-old recorded three points on the night and provided a physical, tone-setting presence on the ice throughout the contest.
Moving forward, the Sabres will be counting on Thompson to build off this kind of performance in the coming weeks.
Sabres’ captain Rasmus Dahlin also looked very solid in his return to the lineup following a three-game absence due to a family matter involving his wife’s health. The team’s lead defenseman finished with two points on the night and led the team in time-on-ice with 25:38. Overall, as expected, with Dahlin back in the lineup, the Sabres look much more stable on the blue line as well as on the power play
Colten Ellis’ Solid Night in Net
Sabres’ goaltender Colten Ellis did his part on Saturday, saving 24 of 27 shots on the night and earning his second career NHL victory as a starter.
In particular, the 25-year-old was excellent in the third period and overtime frames, making a number of crucial saves down the stretch to keep the Sabres afloat.
While Buffalo’s situation in net remains complex, Ellis’ solid play suggests he deserves more opportunities as a starter moving forward.
Fun Fact: Ellis also earned his first career NHL point on Saturday, registering an assist on Ryan McLeod’s shorthanded goal in the third period.
A Look Ahead for the Sabres
The Sabres’ 5-4 overtime victory in Detroit on Saturday is certainly a welcome morale boost for a team that desperately required a spark.
Currently, the Sabres sit in last place in the NHL’s Eastern Conference, yet remain just five points out of a metaphorical playoff spot.
Moving forward, hopefully Buffalo can use this victory as a catalyst to get things rolling and make a valiant push up the standings.
The Buffalo Sabres will return to action on Nov. 17th at home against Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers.
TyeHookerWrites.com 
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