Andre Burakovsky’s first period goal was enough to push the Capitals past Buffalo in the Sabres first pre-season game of the year. Buffalo was unable to beat Pheonix Copley or Braden Holtby in goal.
The outcome is not incredibly surprising based on the fact that Washington used a far more veteran lineup than the Sabres. Alex Ovechkin, Niklas Backstrom, Jason Chimera, Joel Ward, and Holtby all played for Washington. The most veteran skaters for Buffalo were Mike Weber, Andre Benoit, Torrey Mitchell, Brian Flynn, and Matt Ellis. Not exactly the most fair fight.
Nathan Lieuwen started, and played the entire game for Buffalo. He made 24 saves but allowed the game’s only goal.
The game was also Sam Reinhart‘s first game with the team, and although he didn’t look out of place he didn’t blow anyone’s socks off either. He was unable to record a shot in the game. He centered a line with Joel Armia and Nicolas Deslauriers.
Mikhail Grigorenko had a very solid game for the Sabres, creating scoring chances, fore-checking, and even getting physical. It’s a good sign for the young forward who has started exemplifying his potential as of late.
The Sabres are back in action Tuesday when they play Carolina in their first home pre-season game. Nolan said after the game to expect more veterans to trickle into the lineup as pre-season moves along.