Kreider scores twice in Rangers’ season-opening 5-1 win over Sabres

Buffalo, NY (AP) – Chris Kreider scored a power-play goal and a short-handed goal, while Igor Shesterkin made 23 saves to secure his 100th career victory as the New York Rangers defeated the Buffalo Sabres 5-1 in their season opener on Thursday night.

The Rangers, led by new coach Peter Laviolette, showcased a more defensively responsible style of play in their first game following a disappointing playoff exit last season. Kreider’s contributions, along with goals from Artemi Panarin, Alexis Lafreniere, and Jacob Trouba, propelled the Rangers to a commanding 3-0 lead in the second period. Mika Zibanejad also had a strong game, tallying three assists.

Shesterkin’s milestone win came in his 159th career game, setting a new franchise record for the fastest Rangers goalie to reach 100 wins. Additionally, defenseman Adam Fox recorded his 200th career point in his 285th game, joining an exclusive group of NHL defensemen to reach this milestone in fewer games.

Despite high expectations for a young and talented team, the Sabres struggled throughout the game, with JJ Peterka providing their only goal. Rookie goaltender Devon Levi, at just 21 years old, started in net for the Sabres and stopped 25 shots.

Buffalo’s new defensive duo of Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power made their debut, with Dahlin recently signing an eight-year, $88 million extension and Power signing a seven-year, $58.45 million extension.

Kreider’s goals proved decisive, as the Rangers’ attention to defensive detail limited the Sabres’ offensive opportunities. The Rangers’ penalty kill unit also demonstrated their strength, blocking four shots in the opening minutes of the third period to protect their 3-1 lead.

Pregame Tribute

The Sabres paid tribute to long-time team broadcaster Rick “RJ” Jeanneret, who passed away at the age of 81 in August. The arena was also renamed “RJ Way” in his honor. Additionally, Bills safety Damar Hamlin, who experienced a cardiac arrest during a football game earlier this year, performed a ceremonial drumming to energize the crowd.

Ice Chips

Sabres rookie Zach Benson became the team’s second-youngest player to appear in a regular-season game, following in the footsteps of Pierre Turgeon. The Sabres also made history as the first NHL team to have three defensemen drafted first overall: Erik Johnson, Rasmus Dahlin, and Owen Power.

Up Next

The Rangers will face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday night, part of a road-heavy start to their season. The Sabres will travel to play the New York Islanders on the same night.

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl