Tyler Toffoli netted two goals, and Vitek Vanecek made just 10 saves. The New Jersey Devils cruised to a 7-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday night, ending a three-game losing streak.
Fast Start for Devils
The Devils exploded for four first-period goals following Friday’s frustrating 2-1 home loss to Columbus. This win marked their first home victory since Oct. 29 and only their second in eight games overall.
Alexander Holtz, Nico Hischier, Ondrej Palat, Dawson Mercer, and Luke Hughes also scored for New Jersey. Jesper Bratt and Dougie Hamilton each contributed two assists. Hischier, returning after missing 11 games, centered a line with Palat and Bratt, combining for two goals and four assists.
“It feels good to be back with the team and to battle out there and secure a win,” said Hischier, the Devils’ captain. “The team was connected. It was a 60-minute effort, and we were a dangerous team.”
Sabres Struggle
Buffalo, coming off a 3-2 home win against Pittsburgh on Friday, lost for the fifth time in seven games. Jeff Skinner and Kyle Okposo scored for the Sabres, who were outshot 38-12.
“It’s very disappointing,” Sabres coach Don Granato said. “This was self-inflicted. We didn’t work hard enough.”
Game Highlights
Holtz started the scoring just 1:31 into the game with his sixth goal of the season. Toffoli doubled the lead on a delayed penalty at 11:09, assisted by Brendan Smith and Mercer. Hischier made it 3-0 at 15:20 with his first goal since Oct. 25.
“We came out quick, speed through the neutral zone, speed on the entries,” Devils coach Lindy Ruff said. “Adding a player like Nico gives us more depth in the top lines.”
Hischier last played on Oct. 27, when he took a high hit from Sabres defenseman Connor Clifton, who received a two-game suspension.
Clifton’s Return
Clifton fought Smith late in the first period and was met with boos each time he touched the puck.
“I served my time, but I know it’s not over,” Clifton said. “I wouldn’t expect it to be.”
Second Period Action
Devon Levi replaced Eric Comrie in goal for the Sabres to start the second period. Skinner spoiled Vanecek’s shutout bid with a power-play goal at 1:53, but Toffoli quickly responded with his second goal a minute later.
“We’re not finding a consistent game,” Clifton said. “It’s a mindset. We have to be better. A quarter of the season in, time is of the essence.”
Upcoming Games
- Devils: Hosting the New York Islanders on Tuesday.
- Sabres: Visiting the New York Rangers on Tuesday.
