Coming into Saturday’s game vs. the Montreal Canadians, the Buffalo Sabres had only managed to get five goals from their defensemen all season long (three of which came from Rasmus Ristolainen), yet two Sabres defensemen found their way onto the score sheet as they helped Buffalo to a 3-2 victory in overtime.
It was Zach Bogosian with his first goal of the season on a quick snap shot that seemed to catch Carey Price by surprise.
“It feels nice,” Bogosian said. “I feel like I’ve been on it that last few games. I got the shot off as quick as possible.”
Of course, the goal never would have happened if it weren’t for a miraculous save by Robin Lehner at the other end. His diving save kept the Sabres alive when the entire arena though that Montreal was about to win it.
“I don’t know if there will be another one like that this year,” Cody Franson said.
It’s the second time in as many nights that the Sabres have won a game in which they never led until it was over. Once again, the Sabres trailed in the third period and this time it was Franson with a shot from the point that tied the game.
Montreal opened the scoring in the game as Arturri Lehkonen pounced on a juicy rebound early in the second period, giving the Habs a 1-0 lead. The Sabres though were quick to answer as captain and former Canadian Brian Gionta got his 10th goal of the year to tie it at 1.
Lehner deserves plenty of credit, making 36 saves and stealing a win. It was a big bounce-back performance for him, especially after his last outing in Toronto. He and Price put on a show, making huge saves to keep their teams in it.
The Sabres victory over the Canadians may signal a turning point for a maturing team looking to solidify an identity. Lately, the Sabres have followed up convincing wins with equally convincing losses. But after two wins in a row, and a record of 19-18-9, they may be showing signs of shrugging off the inconsistencies that have plagued them all season long.
The Sabres will look to win three in a row Tuesday night in Nashville vs. the Predators at 8 p.m.