NEW YORK — Casey Cizikas scored the tiebreaking goal in the third period, and the New York Islanders opened their season with a 3-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday night.
In their first home opener victory since 1995, the Islanders triumphed with a goal and an assist from Brock Nelson, a goal from Kyle Palmieri, and an outstanding performance by Ilya Sorokin, who made 27 saves.
Cizikas stated that instead of losing confidence after conceding the second goal, they elevated their game. They continued to attack rather than retreating and eventually reaped the benefits of their aggressive approach.
The Sabres, fresh from a 5-1 defeat in their season opener against the New York Rangers at home, saw Jordan Greenway and Casey Mittelstadt contribute goals to their tally. Devon Levi’s outstanding performance in the net resulted in 23 saves.
With 6:20 remaining in the game, Cizikas skillfully redirected Adam Pelech’s shot from the point, breaking the 2-2 tie. Despite the Sabres challenging the play, claiming that Islanders defenseman Noah Dobson had entered the zone offside before the goal, the score was allowed to stand.
Islanders forward Matt Martin stated that a single line has the power to shift the momentum, while subsequent lines continue to build on it. He believes that their team is united and strong across all four lines, emphasizing the importance of receiving contributions from each line in order to achieve success.
At 2:34 of the third period, Mittelstadt managed to equalize the score with his debut goal of the season. The 24-year-old center skillfully seized a loose puck in front of Sorokin and effortlessly lifted it into the net with a backhand shot.
According to Sabres coach Don Granato, “Our team exhibited a greater resemblance to our true form, with more instances of speed and aggressive play. Right before they scored the winning goal, we had two shots hit the goal posts, which could have changed the outcome of the game. Each of us holds our own perspective regarding the final goal.”
At 5:57 into the game, Nelson kicked off the scoring by effortlessly sailing his wrist shot past Levi’s glove. The credit goes to Pierre Engvall, who secured a puck battle along the boards and skillfully set up the play. It’s worth mentioning that Engvall inked a seven-year extension with New York during the offseason.
With 1:42 remaining in the first period, Palmieri extended the Islanders’ lead to 2-0 after Nelson’s shot ricocheted off his leg and a Sabres defender.
At 4:15 of the second period, Buffalo managed to score when Greenway skillfully slid a backhanded shot into the net. Notably, 18-year-old rookie Zach Benson, who was playing his second NHL game, contributed his first career assist on this play.
“Without a doubt, Benson had an exceptional camp. It’s truly remarkable how he perceives the ice, especially considering his young age in the NHL,” praised Sabres defenseman Connor Clifton. “He has been outstanding, deserving of his spot, and his performance tonight was outstanding. Undoubtedly, that line was our standout.”
MOMENT OF SILENCE
Before puck drop, the Islanders observed a moment of silence to honor the victims who lost their lives in the recent attack by Hamas militants in Israel. They also extended their thoughts to all the civilians currently at risk. As a symbol of support, the jumbotron showcased the Israeli flag in blue and white during this period of reflection.
UP NEXT
Sabres: Host Tampa Bay on Tuesday night.
Islanders: Host Arizona on Tuesday night.
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