Josh Norris returned to the Buffalo Sabres lineup on Monday night after nearly two months recovering from an upper-body injury sustained on opening night. His comeback was marked by a strong performance, as he contributed two goals and an assist in the Sabres’ 5-1 victory over the Winnipeg Jets at KeyBank Center.
Norris spoke about his anticipation leading up to the game, saying, “A little restless last night. But hopefully better sleep tonight.” He made an immediate impact by drawing a penalty on his first shift, which led to a power-play goal. Later in the first period, Norris scored to extend Buffalo’s lead and added another goal in the third period after receiving a pass from Zach Benson and finishing on a breakaway. “That kind of sealed it,” Norris said. “I was fired up for that one.”
Sabres coach Lindy Ruff commented on Norris’ speed: “That’s just pure speed going up ice.” Teammate Alex Tuch added, “Man, he can fly. It’s noticeable.”
The win brought Buffalo’s season points percentage back to .500 and put them three points out of third place in the Atlantic Division. The team has dealt with multiple injuries this season but is now healthier than at any previous point.
Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen started in net for Buffalo, making 23 saves and securing his 75th career win with the franchise—moving him into eighth place all-time for wins by a Sabres goaltender. Ruff praised Luukkonen’s performance: “I thought he gave us a couple real key saves… He just looked in control, and to me, it didn’t look like he was going to get beat.”
Buffalo displayed its team speed throughout the game, scoring several rush goals and maintaining strong defensive play against Winnipeg’s top line featuring Mark Scheifele.
Looking ahead, the Sabres will begin a six-game road trip starting Wednesday in Philadelphia. The game will be broadcast nationally on TNT and streamed on HBO Max with puck drop scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
