The Buffalo Sabres (11-14-4) shook up their lines and looked for a spark in Calgary on Monday night, but an early deficit proved too much to overcome in a 7-4 loss to the Flames (12-15-4) at the Saddledome. The defeat dropped Buffalo to an NHL-worst 2-9-2 on the road this season and left them still searching for a win midway through their six-game trip.
The Sabres fell behind 2-0 in the first period before finding their footing. Tage Thompson, Owen Power and Rasmus Dahlin each scored in a back-and-forth second period that briefly pulled Buffalo within 4-3, but the Flames restored their multi-goal lead before intermission. Alex Tuch added a late power-play goal in the third, but Calgary closed the night with two empty-netters.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stopped 17-of-22 shots through two periods before Alex Lyon took over for the third, making four saves. Thompson’s goal, his 13th of the season, came on the power play as Buffalo went 2-for-6 with the man advantage. He also had an earlier tally overturned on an offside challenge.
Josh Norris continued his strong return from injury with two assists, giving him seven points in four games. Jason Zucker also registered two assists, while Zach Benson and Josh Doan each added helpers.
The Sabres were outshot 12-7 in the first but carried play the rest of the way, holding a 22-16 advantage over the final 40 minutes.
The road trip continues Tuesday night in Edmonton, with puck drop set for 9 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].