Timely power-play goals helping fuel Sabres' win streak
The Buffalo Sabres extended their winning streak to four games with a 5-3 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday. A strong power play and key contributions from Josh Norris led the way, while injuries continue to test the team’s depth.
Josh Norris played a decisive role in the win, scoring the game-winning goal with 9:40 left in the third period. His tally, his third of the season, came on the power play—part of a surge that has seen Buffalo score in seven of their last eight games. The Sabres have converted 9 of 32 chances (28.1%) in that stretch, making their special teams a driving force in recent success.
Norris has been a standout since returning from injury, recording at least one point in each of the last six games. His performance has helped Buffalo climb the rankings, with the team now sitting in the league’s top 13 for both power play and penalty kill efficiency. Defensively, the Sabres face a challenge after Conor Timmins broke his leg and is expected to miss six to eight weeks. His absence leaves a gap on the league’s top-ranked penalty kill, though no single replacement has been named. Zach Metsa and Jacob Bryson are among the candidates to step in, but the coaching staff has yet to confirm a starter. Tyson Kozak also left Thursday’s game with an upper-body injury but is expected to skate Saturday morning. His status for the upcoming match against the Islanders remains uncertain, though there is optimism about his availability.
The Sabres’ special teams have fuelled their recent run, with the power play clicking at nearly 30% efficiency. As injuries mount, the team will rely on depth players to maintain their strong penalty kill and offensive momentum. The next test comes against the Islanders, where Buffalo will look to extend their winning streak to five games.
