2-1 hockey games usually aren't very entertaining, but Thursday's matchup between the Buffalo Sabres and New York Rangers was a rare exception. Sabres defenseman Cody Franson tied things up with just 5:31 left in the third period, but the Rangers secured the extra point with a Chris Kreider goal in overtime.
Five observations from Thursday's loss:
Another injury.....
Zach Bogosian left the game after this hit against the boards #NYRvsBUF pic.twitter.com/aSysgZ32FC
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 3, 2017
Zach Bogosian didn't return after the first period with what the Sabres identified as a 'mid-boy' injury.
On Tuesday against Montreal, Bogosian was arguably the Sabres worst player. Regardless, the last thing the Sabres needed was another injury to a defenseman. The club is already without Jake McCabe and Josh Gorges, however, both are on pace to return sometime 'soon' according to General Manager Tim Murray, who spoke on WGR 550 Thursday before the game.
After the loss Sabres head coach Dan Bylsma had no further update on Bogosian.
If the injury is something that lingers I'd imagine the Sabres will recall Casey Nelson from Rochester yet again.
No, to answer your question before you even ask it, Brendan Guhle is not getting a call-up.
A lot to like from Kane -- Girgensons -- Gionta
The Sabres had a handful of nice chances on Thursday night and a lot of them happened when this line was on the ice. Lately, I've really liked Evander Kane's game and I think as a trio they really compliment each other.
The #Sabres should trade Evander Kane pic.twitter.com/sAhfSCtABn
— Matthew Bové (@Matt_Bove) February 3, 2017
Although they didn't score, it was certainly a good night for this line.
Pitiful power play
The Buffalo Sabres finished the night 0-for-3 on the power play and failed to really create any big chances until their third attempt of the night.
In these close games the difference can be a special teams goal -- just look at the lone Rangers goal in regulation. Just like their overall play, the Sabres power play has been incredibly inconsistent. If they're going to make a playoff run they'll need to be better with the man advantage.
Return of the King
For what it's worth, 'Return of the King' is the second best movie in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, but that's a discussion for another day. On Thursday Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist showed that he's still got some gas left in the tank, stopping 36 of Buffalo's 37 shots.
Not to be outdone, Robin Lehner was also very good on Thursday and deserves some recognition. Lehner actually made five more saves than Lundqvist (42), but the subcategory praise goes to the guy who got the win.
Both goalies were outstanding and were a big reason why this low scoring game was still entertaining.
Thursday woes
You just can't make this stuff up. With the loss, the Sabres are now 1-9-2 on Thursday's this season. You have to go all the way back to December 1 for the last Sabres win on Thursday.
Oh yeah, another Thursday loss for the #Sabres pic.twitter.com/2mFQpuwBV8
— Matthew Bové (@Matt_Bove) February 3, 2017
