Eichel scores winner in first preseason game
If Buffalo Sabres forward Jack Eichel had any hopes of lowering the insanely high expectations about his rookie season, he’s blowing it. After scoring an overtime winner to help the Sabres prospects win their rookie tournament, Eichel’s first impression at the NHL level was just as satisfying.
In his first preseason game as a pro, Eichel scored a shorthanded goal which stood as the game-winner as the Sabres came back to beat the Minnesota Wild on the road.
The game wasn’t televised, but here’s how it looked via the Sabres:
Jack Eichel’s GWG as #Sabres begin preseason 1-0. Full highlights to come on http://t.co/GvTkURDMwh. pic.twitter.com/ir7BlVWI7T
— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) September 22, 2015
That’s a rather confident finish from the 18-year-old center.
Eichel also added an assist to his total to introduce himself to his new team rather positively. He was named the game’s first star.
You might have also noticed that Eichel is wearing No. 41. Apparently the kid didn’t want to presume he’d make the roster, so he won’t wear the No. 15 he had previously chosen earlier in the summer until he’s made the team. It might only be the preseason, but maybe the kid should make the switch now. He’s not going anywhere.
By the way, a little further northwest of where Eichel was making some waves, fellow rookie phenom Connor McDavid was named the first star with a pair of assists in his first preseason game with the Edmonton Oilers. McDavid’s helpers came in the third period in a split-squad win over the Calgary Flames.
It should be a real treat to see these two tearing up the ice this season.
Sabres rookie Jack Eichel impressed in his first NHL preseason game. (USATSI)
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