Buffalo Sabres: What makes the front three so valuable
By Sion Fawkes
Offensive instincts
We saw the front three’s instincts on display often against the Montreal Canadiens. The first example occurred on an Alex Tuch breakaway when Thompson tipped him the puck. A second example occurred during Skinner’s goal via an assist from Rasmus Dahlin, when Tuch was in prime position for a rebound during Jeff Skinner’s second goal of the afternoon.
A third example occurred when Skinner lobbed one to Tuch midway through the second. Skinner was also credited for an assist on a Tage Thompson goal. And earlier in the game, Thompson also made headway with a pass to Casey Fitzgerald, who found Skinner in front of the net.
The more they play together, the more it seems this trio knows where the other is on the ice. Often, they were passing to one another in full stride, or utilizing fourth or fifth teammates to complete their goal scoring frenzy. But it’s not just the Montreal game. Head coach Don Granato also had good things to say following the Blue Jackets game.