BUFFALO — A backhand goal by Sabres’ rookie Jack Eichel with a second remaining in overtime sealed an afternoon win for the Buffalo Sabres over the Carolina Hurricanes, 3-2.
Eichel’s goal, his 22nd of the season — and second of the game, was assisted by Evander Kane at 4:59 of the extra session.
Carolina took a 1-0 lead at 6:42 of the second period with a Phillip Di Giuseppe goal assisted by Jeff Skinner. Just 70 seconds later, Marcus Foligno tied it for the Sabres with a wrist shot. Foligno’s ninth goal of the season was assisted by Brian Gionta.
In the third period, Eichel’s 21st goal of the season at 4:56, gave the Sabres a 2-1 advantage. The goal was a deflection off a Sam Reinhart shot, also assisted by Kane. Victor Rask tied it for the Hurricanes at 9:01 to force the overtime session. Riley Nash and Elias Lindholm assisted.
The Sabres, now 28-33-9, next play the Montreal Canadiens at 7 p.m. Wednesday at First Niagara Center.
