Despite the setback in Game 2, the Sabres have a lot to enjoy. And that is not just in their remainder run in the postseason for 2026. Many players have combined to put together strong campaigns in an unbelievable season.
On the third line, the chemistry of two has paid off in the regular season and now during the playoffs. These two could be vital for the Sabres to turn things around and take the series against the Montreal Canadiens.
Right winger Josh Doan and left winger Zach Benson have become a potent combo on the third line.
Doan, recently signed an extension this past January has been excellent in the playoffs. He thus far has six points between both playoff series. He was an excellent pickup after the offseason trade that brought him from Utah in exchange for JJ Peterka.
As for Benson, he has become a force to be reckoned with. He equally has the same number of points as Doan, but has been a physical part of why the Sabres are in the second round. He has been great on the boards and has continued to put pressure both offensively and defensively while on the ice.
The two players have brought the best out of each other in the postseason. Benson has not reached his potential until late this season, and the playoffs, and Doan may be one of the reasons he has been such a huge part of both series.
As each game goes by in the playoffs, the third line will be extremely important to give the Sabres much-needed opportunities to continue the push to find the back of the net.
In the 5-1 Game 2 loss against Montreal, Zach Benson scored with an assist from Josh Doan.
The big names have stepped up during the playoffs, but depth will be even more important as the series goes long. Both teams are evenly matched, and depth could be a huge difference between who can get three more wins.
Doan is signed for the long term. The longer he teams up well with Benson, the more chances the Sabres will look at Benson this offseason. He is slated to become a restricted free agent this summer.
But that is for after the playoffs end. Zach Benson and Josh Doan could be unsung heroes for the Sabres as they continue the series. Another couple of points by both could lead to another win for the organization.
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