The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Washington Capitals at home for the second time in two weeks, this time by a score of 4-2. What started as a slow, methodic, defensive game opened up in the second period and played in Buffalo’s favor.
The Sabres struck first on a Zach Benson tip with one minute remaining in the first period. Their lead was extended on a nice rush play that Alex Tuch finished off from the high slot. The Capitals answered two minutes later as Connor McMichael tapped a pass through Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.
The third period saw more fireworks, as Jack Quinn extended the Sabres’ lead. With the pulled goalie, Dylan Cozens found the empty net and the game seemed over with a three-goal lead.
The Capitals had other plans for the Sabres, as Tom Wilson deflected one past Luukkonen to cut into the lead with a minute remaining. A frustrated T.J. Oshie then took a late run at Tage Thompson, and Rasmus Dahlin came in to knock Oshie to the ice. A melee ensued with all 10 skaters on the ice pairing off, including Thompson throwing heavy punches at Max Pacioretty.
It was an entertaining end to the final home game of the season, giving the fans one last thing to cheer for.
Impact Players
There wasn’t one standout player in particular for the Sabres, as it was a well-rounded team effort that accomplished the job. Luukkonen was solid as we’ve grown accustomed to, and four different Sabres goal-scorers ended up on the game sheet.
The Difference
Don Granato made a slight in-game change to the forward lines, by swapping Benson and Jordan Greenway. The move paid dividends, as Benson scored on good zone play by him and his new linemates – Jeff Skinner and Peyton Krebs.
The third and fourth goals were also a result of the switch, as Greenway recorded assists on both Quinn and Cozens tallies.
What’s Next
Buffalo’s final two games of the season will be played in the state of Florida, beginning with the Panthers on Saturday. They’ll head there after practice tomorrow, looking to finish the season strong against two contenders. They’ll close the season on Monday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
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