Storylines

1. The winning streak

The Sabers were 0-3-0 when they hosted the Panthers on October 12. They are 4-1-1 since winning that night and have scored at least four goals in each of those six games.

Their current three-game winning streak puts them in the middle of the crowded Atlantic Division standings, where five teams are tied with identical 4-4-1 records. The Panthers top the division at 6-3-1.

Buffalo’s last three wins have had a similar recipe: score the first goal and close the game late.

“We’ve gotten better every day through the whole process,” Clifton said. “Obviously we didn’t have the start we wanted, but we’re back to .500 now after nine games, so we’re starting over here and we’re going to continue to get better and play the best we can.”

2. Thompson’s point series

Tage Thompson starts a six-game losing streak tonight after scoring two goals and an assist against Detroit on Saturday. He has scored at least one goal in each of the last four games.

Thompson is tied for first in the NHL this season with seven even-strength goals. Only four players have more goals at all strengths: Nico Hischier (9), Nikita Kucherov (8), Ross Colton (8) and Cole Caufield (8).

Just as the Sabres’ team success comes from a dedication to detail, Thompson attributed his hot start to playing the right way and trusting that points will follow.

“I think it’s just the desperation that comes in every night trying to get our team to win,” Thompson said after the game on Saturday. “I just try to lead by example on both sides of the puck. I’m not really worried about the goals or the points. Those things will take care of themselves as long as I do things that help our team win.”