Tage Thompson led the Buffalo Sabres to a thrilling 5-3 victory over the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday night, scoring three goals in the game, including the 200th of his career, and assisting on two others.
Josh Doan and Alex Tuch also contributed to the Sabres’ success, with Doan scoring a goal and an assist. Colten Ellis made 20 saves in goal, helping Buffalo secure their 15th win in their last 17 games.
With a record of 26-16-4, the Sabres are off to their best start in years, matching their win total and amassing 56 points in just 47 games, reminiscent of their successful 2009-10 season.
Montreal’s Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki made notable contributions for the Canadiens, each scoring a goal and an assist, while Ivan Demidov also found the back of the net. Rookie Jacob Fowler made 22 saves in the losing effort.
After a back-and-forth battle, Thompson netted the decisive goal early in the third period, securing the win for Buffalo. The victory marked the Sabres’ 10th win in 12 home games and ended a six-game winless streak against Montreal at home.
The game also served as a special night for the Sabres organization, celebrating the 20th anniversary of their 2005-06 team that made an impressive playoff run. Former players like Ryan Miller, Thomas Vanek, Jason Pominville, and Jay McKee were honored, with Vanek and Pominville being surprised with news of their induction into the Sabres Hall of Fame.
