Sabres’ Jiri Kulich gets a big moment in Buffalo after a year away from hockey

Buffalo Sabres center Jiri Kulich scored the game-winning goal in a 4-3 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks during Buffalo's home opener on Saturday night. After missing nearly a year due to a blood clot diagnosed last November, Kulich broke a 3-3 tie with under seven minutes remaining in the third period by beating goaltender Spencer Knight.

Head coach Lindy Ruff elevated Kulich from the fourth line to the third line during the third period, deploying him alongside Konsta Helenius and Peyton Krebs. Rasmus Dahlin and Jack Quinn also scored for Buffalo, helping the Sabres overcome multiple defensive lapses to earn their first victory of the regular season.