Buffalo Sabres Host Edmonton Oilers on Native American Heritage Night

Buffalo, New York – The Buffalo Sabres return to KeyBank Center on Monday, November 17, after a thrilling overtime victory in Detroit against the Red Wings. This win ended their five-game winless streak, which was marked by four losses and one overtime defeat.

Tage Thompson played a pivotal role in the victory by forcing a turnover from Alex DeBrincat near the net, leading to Mattias Samuelsson‘s game-winning goal. “I think it was just desperation,” Thompson said after the game. The Sabres are eager to maintain that energy as they embark on a four-game homestand, starting tonight against the Edmonton Oilers.

Tonight’s game is particularly special as it is designated as Native American Heritage Night, and it will feature the first of three collaborations between the Sabres and the AKG Buffalo Art Museum. Items featuring a logo designed by Seneca artist G. Peter Jemison will be available for auction, with proceeds benefitting Western Door Hockey. The puck drops at 7 p.m. ET.

Buffalo has shown strong performances at home, earning at least a point in seven of their last eight games, with a record of 5-1-2. The Sabres are looking to carry this momentum forward against a formidable Oilers team.

The Sabres bolstered their defense with the return of Rasmus Dahlin, who contributed two assists in his first game back from personal leave. However, the team faces a setback with Michael Kesselring on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury. Coach Lindy Ruff stated, “Obviously going to be a little bit of time for [Kesselring]; I don’t have a timeframe yet.”

Another player to watch is Mattias Samuelsson. At just 25, he has already made a significant impact with three goals this season, just shy of his single-season high. He leads the Sabres in blocked shots, playing a crucial role in their penalty kill.

The Oilers, who are the reigning Western Conference champions, have their own star players shining this season. Connor McDavid ranks second in the NHL with 30 points, while Leon Draisaitl is tied for second with 13 goals. The Oilers boast one of the league’s top power plays, operating at 31.4 percent.

Both teams will be looking for crucial points as the season progresses. Buffalo is eager to build on their latest win. As the Sabres gear up for tonight’s match, expectations are high for an exciting game.