Haula scores twice, sparks Devils past Sabres

Rasmus Dahlin scored his first goal of the season at 17:32, tying the game 3-3 with a powerful slap shot from the right point. This moment of brilliance brought energy to the ice.

Buffalo coach Don Granato reflected on the game, acknowledging the team’s inconsistency. “Overall, there were flashes of brilliance mixed with moments of mediocrity. We strive for more of the brilliance,” Granato stated. He emphasized that the team need to take responsibility for their own mistakes and expressed his disappointment.

The game continued to be a rollercoaster as Jack Hughes netted a power-play goal at 2:09 in the third period, giving the Devils a 4-3 lead. However, Cozens responded with a stunning sharp-angled shot that found the right post, equalizing the score 4-4 at 12:35.

Reflecting on their performance, Haula emphasized that it is still early in the season and they have plenty of room for improvement. “There are areas where we can excel, both individually and as a team. We will continue to progress and grow together,” Haula said optimistically, reminding everyone that there is still a long season ahead.

With 1:01 remaining in the third period, Haula missed an opportunity for his first NHL hat trick when his stick broke right before he could take a shot into the empty net from the right circle. He expressed his disappointment, saying, “It’s a little sad. I don’t know if I’ll ever get another chance like that.”

The game took a contentious turn when Sabres defenseman Connor Clifton delivered a high hit to Devils center Nico Hischier along the boards at 16:00 of the first period. Hischier managed to play in the second period but was held out for precautionary reasons in the third. Clifton will face a hearing with the NHL Department of Player Safety on Saturday regarding the hit.

Devils head coach Ruff provided an update on Hischier’s condition, stating, “He was held out of the third period as a precaution. We will assess his condition tomorrow.”

NOTES: Granato did not have any updates regarding Comrie after the game. Dahlin’s impressive performance extended his point streak to seven games, marking the longest streak of his NHL career with eight points (one goal, seven assists). Cozens also continued his consistent play with a six-game point streak, totaling seven points (three goals, four assists). Meanwhile, Jack Hughes extended his incredible season-opening point streak to seven games with a total of 18 points (five goals, 13 assists), joining the ranks of franchise history. The Devils showed their resilience once again, clinching their fourth comeback victory of the season.