Young Owen Power picked the best moment to score his first goal of the season, Monday in Dallas. He threaded the needle in overtime in a Buffalo Sabers 3-2 win over the Stars.
Power, the first overall pick in the 2021 draft, was named the hot favorite in the pre-campaign Calder Trophy race. We can’t say he’s impressed the gallery with 16 assists in his first 42 duels, but he’s already averaging almost 24 minutes per game on the ice at the age of 20.
In the duel of the day, the former University of Michigan hit the post at the beginning of overtime. However, Tage Thompson gave him a second chance moments later and served him a superb backhand. Power didn’t miss his shot and demystified Jake Oettinger with a powerful one-timer throw.
Thompson also had an assist in his team’s second goal, scored by Victor Olofsson. This brings the striker in giant format to 63 points in 46 small games.
Rasmus Dahlin also hit the bull’s eye in the win. This is his 14th win of the season, allowing him to come within a goal of compatriot Erik Karlsson and become the top defender.
Jamie Benn and Jason Robertson answered for the stars. Veteran Joe Pavelski had two assists in the loss.