Penguins/Sabres Recap: Avery Hayes and Ben Kindel Score, Pens Win Big in Buffalo
Pregame
The Penguins made some lineup changes, with Blake Lizotte unavailable due to an impending birth, allowing Kevin Hayes to play for the first time since January 11th. Noel Acciari was too sick to play, and Rickard Rakell suffered an injury, paving the way for Avery Hayes to make his NHL debut. The Buffalo Sabres donned their alternate jerseys for this game.
First Period
Buffalo struck first, with Jason Zucker's shot from outside the blue line hitting the post and going in. 1-0 Buffalo at 1:46. Avery Hayes made his mark, using speed to create a mini-breakaway and score his first NHL goal. 1-1.
Evgeni Malkin took a two-minute high-sticking penalty, which the Pens killed. Hayes then set his career goal-to-period ratio with a bump pass from Anthony Mantha and a quick shot, making it 2-1 Pens.
Ryan Shea took a penalty 12 seconds later, but it didn't seem to matter.
Second Period
Ben Kindel had a standout moment, receiving a pass and scoring a perfect shot to make it 3-1 Pens.
Sidney Crosby was next in line for a penalty, but the Sabres couldn't capitalize.
The Penguins finally got their first power play when Alex Tuch tripped Arturs Silovs. No goal was scored.
Third Period
Evgeni Malkin took an offensive zone tripping penalty, and Buffalo scored their first power play goal, making it 3-2.
There were close calls, but no goals were scored.
Then, some mayhem ensued. Peyton Krebs crashed into Silovs, leading to a fight between Connor Clifton and Krebs. Clifton emerged victorious.
The Pens got a power play, but no goal was scored. Tommy Novak scored an insurance goal with 4:27 to go, making it 4-2.
Buffalo pulled their goalie, but Kindel scored an empty net goal to seal the deal at 5-2.
Thoughts
- Avery Hayes had a great first goal, showcasing his effort and skill. His story is one of long-term overnight success, proving himself in the AHL and making his NHL debut at 23.
- A second goal would have been better, but it's still impressive to be in the right place at the right time.
- The lineup changes and circumstances were crucial for Hayes' debut. It's a wild coincidence that so many factors aligned perfectly.
- Hayes' story is incredible, from scoring against the Hershey Bears to making his NHL debut in Buffalo.
- Bob Grove's stat: Hayes joins Jake Guentzel and Robbie Brown in an impressive company.
- The fight between Clifton and Krebs was entertaining, and Silovs' stop in the third period was crucial for the Pens' win.
- Rust played a great defensive role, blocking shots and passes.
