Rasmus Dahlin and Tage Thompson each recorded two goals and an assist as the Buffalo Sabres dominated the New York Rangers, 8-2, at KeyBank Center on Saturday evening.
The Sabres (23-27-5) surged to a 5-0 lead in the first period, securing their fifth win in six games. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen contributed 26 saves, while Ryan McLeod added two goals and Jason Zucker notched three assists.
Buffalo took control early when Jack Quinn opened the scoring at 1:46 of the first period after intercepting K’Andre Miller’s pass and firing a wrist shot past Igor Shesterkin. Dahlin made it 2-0 at 11:58, followed by Thompson’s highlight-reel goal at 15:32 during a delayed penalty. McLeod extended the lead to 4-0 at 17:33, and Dahlin capped off the dominant first period with his second goal on a power play at 18:21, forcing Shesterkin out of the game.
The Rangers (27-25-4) responded with goals from Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad, but Thompson, McLeod, and Henri Jokiharju added three more goals for Buffalo.
The game ended on a sour note for Buffalo as Alex Tuch exited early in the third period after a hit from Miller.
The Sabres look to continue their hot stretch on Tuesday when they host the Anaheim Ducks at 7 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].