Sabres Force Game 5 in Eastern Conference Semifinals
The Buffalo Sabres have leveled their Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Montreal Canadiens, clinching a 3-2 victory in Game 4 on Tuesday night. The win, which came courtesy of a third-period power-play goal by Zach Benson on his 21st birthday, evens the series at two games apiece.
Benson's clutch goal, coming with the teams tied 2-2, proved to be the decisive moment, shifting the series momentum back to Buffalo ahead of Game 5.
The series now heads back to Buffalo for Game 5 on Thursday night, with Game 6 scheduled for Montreal on Saturday.
Thompson's Form Bolsters Sabres' Home Advantage
Recent performances indicate a resurgence for Tage Thompson, a key forward for the Sabres. Following a stretch of six consecutive losses that saw their season prospects dim, the team has since rattled off six straight wins at their home arena, KeyBank Center. This home streak has seen them compile a 15-4-0 record since Christmas, with an average of 3.9 goals scored per game.
Read More: PGA Championship 2026 starts Thursday near Philadelphia
Thompson himself has been a significant contributor to this turnaround, netting 12 of Buffalo's 35 goals over their last 14 contests. His career achievements include being one of only eight players in Sabres history to record multiple seasons with at least 40 goals, bringing his career total to 175.
Recurring Injury Concerns for Thompson
Despite his recent offensive output, Tage Thompson has faced persistent injury challenges. In November 2023, he sustained another injury after blocking a shot with his hand, forcing him to leave a game. This incident followed a previous injury, highlighting a pattern of physical setbacks.
Earlier in February 2025, the team held a meeting after no players immediately defended Thompson when he received what was described as a "brutal cheap shot." The incident, involving Stefan Noesen of New Jersey, resulted in Noesen receiving a match penalty. Thompson was subsequently ruled out of the following game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, though he passed concussion protocol.
Read More: Sabres tie series 2-2 after Benson's birthday goal in Montreal
Broader Context and Season Performance
The Sabres' recent winning streak appears to be a response to a period of less successful play. Before their current home surge, the team experienced a slump, losing six games in a row and seeing their points percentage drop to .313 over three weeks.
A statement from coach Lindy Ruff prior to the 4 Nations Face-Off break suggested the team could still mount a playoff run if they achieved ".700 hockey" in the latter part of the season. The current home form, particularly with Thompson finding his scoring touch, aligns with that possibility. However, the team has also faced public criticism regarding their performance, with Thompson himself reportedly offering a "brutal reality check" after a 6-2 loss to the Calgary Flames in November 2025. This sentiment was echoed in a separate report about a team meeting addressing a lack of protection for star players.
Read More: Spurs lead Timberwolves 3-2 after Wembanyama's big game
The Sabres are operating under the shadow of a 14-year playoff drought, a persistent narrative influencing their season. Their ability to sustain recent successes, particularly against playoff-bound competition, remains a focal point.
