Nov 5, 2014; Buffalo, NY, USA; Buffalo Sabres left wing Tyler Ennis (63) during the third period against the Montreal Canadiens at First Niagara Center. Canadiens beat the Sabres 2-1 in a shootout. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
1. Tyler Ennis’ Highlight-Reel Goal
The goal of the season for the Buffalo Sabres was almost certainly one scored by Buffalo Sabres center Tyler Ennis on November 28.
Just over three minutes into the first period, Ennis scored a backhand goal as he fell to the ice on the right side of the Canadiens’ net. The no-look backhander made the highlight reels on multiple news stations, including SB Nation.
“That was one beautiful goal.” – Ted Nolan
It has arguably been one of the best goals scored in the NHL this season, surpassed only by a few of Vladimir Tarasenko‘s tallies.
Even now, months after the goal, it’s still receiving praise. On January 22, Sportsnet named it the number three goal of the NHL season. (Yes, one of Tarasenko’s goals was #1).
The goal was Ennis’ team-leading seventh of the season, and even Ted Nolan noted how highlight reel-worthy it was.
Perhaps my favorite story to tell regarding this goal: I was at that game against the Habs, sitting on the glass to the left of the Habs net. I decided to send a Snapchat video of the game to several friends, and just happened (by some odd, random turn of events) to be filming on my phone when that move – and the resulting goal – happened. I don’t know how much luck happened like that, but it’s pretty awesome that I got it on video.
So — what do you think of these top five moments of the Buffalo Sabres’ season so far? Do you agree with my choices? What else would you have picked? I’m sure there may be other notable moments that could have been selected, but these are the ones that stuck out for me. Feel free to leave your picks in the comments.