Benn’s late pair helps stars pull away

Dec 31, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Stars left wing Jamie Benn (14) celebrates the goal by center Tyler Seguin (not pictured) during the second period against the Los Angeles Kings at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Jamie Benn scored twice in a two minute span during the 3rd period and the Stars beat the Sabres 3-0 Saturday night in Dallas.

Benn scored his first on the power play after a slap-pass from Jason Spezza found him with the puck on his stick right in front of the net. He shifted from back to forehand and easily beat Chad Johnson. His second came just after after Tyler Seguin set up Benn perfectly coming down the left wing. There were no defenders between him and Johnson and he easily flipped one past the Sabres goaltender.

Antoine Roussel opened the scoring in the 1st period with his fourth score of the season on his 26th birthday. John Klingberg and Cody Eakin picked up the helpers.

The Sabres weren’t without chances throughout the game. They once again failed to convert on an extended 5-on-3 opportunity to start the 2nd period. Later in the game, Evander Kane funneled a pass from behind the net to a wide open Jack Eichel in front of the net who couldn’t find the back of the net to tie the game.

Antti Niemi made 22 saves for his second shutout of the season. Matt Moulson thought the Sabres didn’t put enough pressure on him.

“Sometimes we were looking for the perfect shot instead of just getting some on net,” Moulson said.

The Sabres were on the penalty kill for extended periods, including a four minute double minor to Evander Kane which they successfully killed.

Next up for the Sabres is a rematch with the Blues at the First Niagara Center in Buffalo on Monday.

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