The Sabres have come on strong before the February break. They have won four games in a row and despite being in last place in the Eastern Conference, and they seemed poised to have a bright end to the season.
One player that has been instrumental in their four-game winning streak is defenseman Owen Power. In the last five games, he's had four assists and averaged over 20 minutes of time on the ice.
His aggressiveness and ability to find open players on the ice has been key his last five games, and the Sabres winning streak.
In the 4-3 win over the Devils, Power was able to extend his point streak to four games. He helped assist on the Tage Thompson goal which was the deciding goal of the game for Buffalo.
The young defenseman has eight blocks during the five games. It has helped Buffalo regain a small amount of footing in the standings. In addition to the last five games, Power has provided a spark in helping Buffalo on the powerplay.
He's had six power play assists on the year and one power play goal.
His powerplay goal was impressive in a loss against the Penguins in the middle of January. It came during the first period where he was able to hold the puck on the blueline before taking the shot and allowing Buffalo to go up 1-0. They would lose 5-2.
He is also leading the team in blocks on the year with 82. It has been a huge help on defense and to starting goalie, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.
Luukkonen the last five games is also 4-1. James Reimer also just had the most recent victory.
In Reimer's victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets, which extended the Sabres streak to four, Power's point streak ended but he did provide three blocks on the game.
If Buffalo looks to make a mini run to get back into wild card contention, Power will have to continue to come up strong. He has built his way up on the second line, and should stay there for the remainder of the year.
He currently is signed through the 2032 season and if he continues to move up the lineup, Sabres faithful should see him as a staple on the ice for years to come.
Power hopes to get back in the point column this Saturday as Buffalo takes on Nashville.