SAN JOSE, Calif. — Alex Tuch netted a short-handed goal early in the third period, helping the Buffalo Sabres seize their first lead in a thrilling 4-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Saturday night.
Tuch’s impressive play unfolded when he intercepted a pass in his own zone, racing down the ice to beat Sharks’ goalie Mackenzie Blackwood in a breakaway, marking his third short-handed goal this season. This comeback triumph overshadowed the special occasion for the home crowd, who had gathered to witness the retirement of Joe Thornton’s No. 19 jersey.
Earlier in the third period, Dylan Cozens evened the score, while Peyton Krebs added another goal for Buffalo. Rasmus Dahlin put the game out of reach with an empty-net goal in the final moments.
James Reimer, in his return to San Jose after departing the team following the 2022-23 season, put on a strong performance with 31 saves. On the other hand, San Jose’s Fabian Zetterlund and Luke Kunin contributed with goals, but the Sharks have struggled recently, managing just one win in their last seven outings.
Blackwood turned away 27 shots for the Sharks during the contest.
Key takeaways from the game show Buffalo’s resilience, as they turned around to win, only a night after overcoming a two-goal deficit to defeat Anaheim in overtime. Conversely, San Jose’s power play was lackluster, failing to convert on five attempts and allowing the critical short-handed goal. Notably, the Sharks had three power-play opportunities in the third period alone, including a fleeting 19-second two-man advantage.
The atmosphere was charged, with tributes to Thornton echoing throughout the game. Zetterlund celebrated his goal by stroking an imaginary beard in tribute to the legendary player, while Krebs pointed to the No. 19 on his jersey after scoring.
A significant stat highlighted that after victories in Los Angeles and Anaheim earlier in this road trip, the Sabres completed an uncommon California sweep. They had last accomplished such a feat in the 2011-12 season, winning away matches against San Jose, Anaheim, and Los Angeles.
Looking ahead, the Sabres will face the Minnesota Wild at home on Wednesday evening, while the Sharks are set to host the Los Angeles Kings on Monday night.