Tage Thompson scored four goals to lead the Buffalo Sabres to a 5-2 comeback win over the visiting New Jersey Devils on Friday.
New Jersey held a 2-0 lead after the first period, but Thompson got Buffalo on the board just 28 seconds into the second frame. The forward scored the equalizer 17:29 into the second period, and then at the 15:26 mark of the third frame, Thompson deposited a rebound for the game-winning tally.
The win brings the Sabres (35-34-5, 75 points) closer to the Washington Capitals for the last wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. The Devils (36-34-4, 76 points) are one of three teams still between Buffalo and the Washington Capitals in the tightly contested playoff race, as New Jersey missed a chance to gain ground.
Thompson and JJ Peterka both scored empty-net goals in the final minute to seal the Sabres' victory. Peterka has five goals during a four-game scoring streak.
Alex Tuch recorded two assists, extending his points and assists streak to seven games. The forward has 10 points (one goal, nine assists) during the seven-game stretch.
Devon Levi stopped 28 of 30 shots to earn his 10th win of the season.
Injuries and inconsistency have kept Thompson from matching his 47-goal pace from last season, though the forward has been heating up with 14 points (eight goals, six assists) in his past 10 games. Thompson is now up to 26 goals this season.
Max Willman and Jesper Bratt scored for the Devils. Jake Allen stopped 31 of 34 shots.
Willman opened the scoring three minutes into the first period. Luke Hughes' point shot was tipped by Willman and then deflected off Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin and into the net, giving New Jersey the early lead.
Bratt made it a two-goal lead at the 10:31 mark of the first period. A puck battle behind the net resulted in the puck getting out to an open Bratt in front, and the forward deposited a wrist shot for his 24th goal of the season.
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