Benson and Doan Potential Catalysts for Sabres Resurgence
The Buffalo Sabres secured their first victory of the 2025-26 NHL season on Wednesday night. They triumphed over the Ottawa Senators with a high-scoring 8-4 result. This game marked a significant milestone for several players, particularly Zach Benson and Josh Doan.
Benson and Doan: Key Contributors to Sabres’ Victory
In his first game of the season, forward Zach Benson made a remarkable impact. He concluded the match with four assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities. Benson is a promising talent, having been a top-10 pick in the draft a couple of years ago.
Josh Doan, acquired from the JJ Peterka trade alongside Michael Kesselring, also had a stellar performance. He contributed three assists, indicating a bright future for him with the Sabres. If Doan develops further and Kesselring solidifies his role as a top-four defenseman, the trade could yield significant benefits for Buffalo.
Notable Performances from Other Players
- Ryan McLeod: Scored two goals
- Jason Zucker: Scored two goals
- Jack Quinn: Scored two goals
The strong offensive output came from several players, with McLeod, Zucker, and Quinn each netting two goals. Quinn’s performance raises hopes he may reach the 30-goal mark this season.
Prospects for the Season Ahead
Analysts believe the win could signal a turning point for the Sabres. Tyler Yaremchuk and Carter Hutton discussed the implications of this victory on the latest episode of Daily Faceoff LIVE. They emphasized the importance of Benson and Doan in forming a competitive team.
With players like Rasmus Dahlin, Tage Thompson, and Alex Tuch, Buffalo has a solid foundation. The return of a healthy Jordan Greenway could further strengthen the team. There are signs that the Sabres may not be the underperformers they were previously perceived to be.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike are eager to see if this could be the beginning of a resurgence for the Buffalo Sabres.
