12.12.2024
Buffalo Sabres 2 - 3 New York Rangers
The New York Rangers snapped their rough patch by defeating the Buffalo Sabres 3-2 at the KeyBank Center, condemning Buffalo to their eighth consecutive loss. Adam Fox was pivotal for the Rangers, contributing a goal and two assists, while Mika Zibanejad celebrated a personal milestone by netting his 300th NHL goal. Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin made 29 saves to assist in their victory, marking their third win in 11 games. Despite a late surge from the Sabres, with Owen Power producing a goal and assist, Buffalo's early errors, particularly in puck management, proved costly. Sabres' coach Lindy Ruff expressed dissatisfaction with the constant turnovers and suboptimal plays. Reilly Smith and Fox added to the Rangers' tally, with Fox scoring into an empty net for his first of the season. The game also marked a personal achievement for Artemi Panarin, who played his 700th NHL game. Additionally, K'Andre Miller sat out the third period due to an upper-body issue, while the Sabres welcomed back Mattias Samuelsson after missing 12 games.
Ottawa Senators 5 - 1 Anaheim Ducks
Drake Batherson's natural hat trick, which included his 100th NHL goal, powered the Ottawa Senators to a dominant 5-1 victory over the Anaheim Ducks. Batherson's performance, complemented by an assist, underscores his evolution into a well-rounded player, praised by both teammates and coach Travis Green for his improved play away from the puck. Brady Tkachuk contributed a goal and an assist, while Tim Stutzle added two assists, extending his multi-assist streak to a career-best three games. Goalie Linus Ullmark made 31 saves to secure the Senators' third win in four games. Coming off the bench, Noah Gregor opened the scoring for the Senators early, setting the tone for the team, which went an efficient 3-for-5 on power plays. For Anaheim, struggling with a four-game losing streak, Cutter Gauthier managed the solo goal as special teams faltered, going 0-for-5 on power plays. Batherson's hat trick marked the 12th in Senators history and solidified his place as the 10th-fastest skater to reach 100 goals for Ottawa, while the team improved to an impressive 11-2-0 when scoring first.