Buffalo Sabres center Tage Thompson has enjoyed a career renaissance this season and now, he is just three goals away from 40.
Tage Thompson has had a career resurrection unlike anyone on the Buffalo Sabres in 2021-22. A borderline afterthought to most in the sports media before the season began, Thompson worked his way to the top scoring line and evolved into one of the Sabres most reliable forwards.
Now, he needs just three goals to hit 40 for the season. And while it would be hard to score three times in just two games, Thompson’s chances may be better than what you think. With a six-game points streak dating back to April 12th, one of which included three goals in back-to-back games, you have to like Thompson’s chances.
Buffalo Sabres center Tage Thompson on the verge of 40 goals
Thompson had a career-high of just eight goals before the 2021-22 campaign, which occurred last season. From his rookie year to October 2021, Thompson scored just 18 career goals in 145 NHL appearances.
It took Thompson just 20 games to eclipse his previous single-season high. By February 20th, he scored his 20th goal and he has had 17 in the previous two months. You can argue that the more he scores, the more motivated he gets.
Despite the increased motivation, Thompson has already played this season with a massive chip on his shoulder, and rightfully so. The former first-round pick flamed out after just 41 games played with the St. Louis Blues before the Sabres traded for him.
Entering the season, most of the attention turned to Casey Mittelstadt and Dylan Cozens at center. However, Mittelstadt struggled with an injury and never turned into a productive player. And while Cozens showed flashes, he has not enjoyed Thompson’s consistency.
Don’t be surprised if the puck rolls Thompson’s way if the Sabres are in an empty-netter situation. But he has been playing (and scoring) so well, he may not need it as the Sabres end their season against the Boston Bruins and Chicago Blackhawks.
(Statistics provided by Hockey-Reference)