Buffalo Sabres center Tage Thompson recorded a hat trick and five total points to lead his team to a 7-6 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday night at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
Thompson's offensive outburst highlighted a high-scoring affair that saw the Sabres hold off a late push from the Ducks. The win marked Buffalo's second consecutive road victory.
Sabres rookie center Noah Östlund also found the back of the net, celebrating his goal with linemate Zach Benson during the first period. Anaheim goaltender Ville Husso faced a barrage of shots in the opening frame as Buffalo built an early lead.
The game featured several physical moments, including a collision between Ducks defenseman Jackson LaCombe and Benson in the first period. Despite the loss, Anaheim remained competitive throughout, narrowing the gap to one goal in the final minutes before Buffalo secured the win.
