Tage Thompson was named the NHL's First Star of the Week on Monday after scoring five goals and adding three assists during the Buffalo Sabres' three-game sweep through California.
The Sabres announced the honor for the week ending Nov. 1. Thompson's five goals and eight points tied for the league lead over that span as Buffalo went 3-0-0.
Thompson recorded his 10th career hat trick Thursday against Anaheim, then scored twice Saturday in a 3-2 win over Los Angeles. His second goal against the Kings came on the power play late in the game and stood as the winner.
The Anaheim performance moved the 6-foot-6 forward further up the Sabres' record book. Only Rick Martin, with 21, and Gilbert Perreault, with 18, have more hat tricks in franchise history. Since the start of the 2021-22 season, only Auston Matthews has more than Thompson, with 11.
Thompson finished the week with 18 shots. His 63 shots for the season ranked second in the NHL, while his 10 goals tied for sixth.
Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said Saturday that scorers can follow a quiet stretch with a burst of production. Thompson said he has focused on continuing to create chances and keeping his approach steady whether those opportunities turn into goals.
“Felt like I've been pretty good all year just generating and getting looks,” Thompson said.
The award is Thompson's sixth career weekly NHL star selection. He previously earned First Star honors Jan. 17 and Third Star recognition March 7. His other three selections were Second Star awards in February 2025 and twice in December 2022.
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