Score: Sabres 3 | Ducks 2 (OT)
Shots: BUF 32 | ANA 24
Buffalo Sabres Goals:
- Tuch (Unassisted)
- Zucker (Power)
- Kulich (Power, Tuch)
Anaheim Ducks Goals:
- Helleson (Zegras, Carlsson)
- Lundestrom (Johnston, Zellweger)
Plus 1: Defending Your Own
Throughout the game, but particularly during the second period, the Ducks tried to punish the Sabres physically. After Radko Gudas ran over Jason Zucker along the wall, Connor Clifton dropped the mitts and stood up for his teammate. Dylan Cozens got laid out in the neutral zone minutes later. This time it was Zach Benson who addressed the situation. Both instances showed Buffalo would stand up for each other. Lindy Ruff noted in his postgame comments that the group is developing a “togetherness” that will help them elevate their play. Road trips are a great opportunity for teams to bond. With any luck, this trip can be a catalyst to greater success this season.
Minus 1: Struggle Bus
Henri Jokiharju had lost favor with Ruff earlier this season and saw multiple games from the press box. However, the injury to Samuelsson and poor play of Gilbert paved the way for his return to the lineup. This was his chance to prove he belonged in the lineup. Instead, he has continued to struggle mightily. He lacks confidence with the puck, gets beat on the rush, and has difficulty keeping offensive possession alive. He remains firmly in Ruff’s doghouse. He played nearly four minutes less than Owen Power, his defensive partner. Jokiharju is trending in the wrong direction for a player that has something to prove.
Plus 2: Kulich in the Clutch
Juri Kulich had one of his best games as a Sabre. He was relentless on the forecheck and backchecked hard. His line found chemistry and was able to generate some quality scoring chances. It seemed as though Kulich was one bounce away from cashing in. That bounce came in overtime. After Gibson made an excellent save on Tuch, Kulich found the rebound and buried it. The fact that he was out there in overtime is a testament to how he played that night. Ruff was particularly impressed with his excellent night in the faceoff dot. Kulich finished the game 8 for 11 on draws, including a key defensive draw win shortly before his game winner. He’s certainly making his case to stay in Buffalo regardless of the health of the other forwards.
Final Thoughts
The first half of the game contained a frustrating lack of offense from Buffalo. They did seem to find their legs in the back half of the second period, concluding with two goals in the final two minutes. UPL had a great game to keep the team within striking distance. Neither goal can be held against him as the first one was a heavy screen and the second an unfortunate bounce in front. The offense is certainly lacking the presence of Tage Thompson. However, there have been enough players stepping up in his absence to string together some wins. Jason Zucker, in particular, has been excellent. His tying goal at the end of the second was instrumental in their win. The team is 6-2 in their last 8 games and sit in the second wild card spot in the East. They’ll have a great chance at a road trip sweep with tonight’s game against the San Jose Sharks. Hopefully, the team has enough in the tank to return to Buffalo on a three game win streak.