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In a dramatic turn of events, Anze Kopitar propelled the Los Angeles Kings into victory with a natural hat trick in the third period, overcoming the Buffalo Sabres 3-1 in the NHL season opener on Thursday. Goalie Darcy Kuemper showcased his prowess, deflecting 32 shots in a game where the Kings reversed a 1-0 deficit.

Pivoting the Game: Kopitar’s Lightning-Quick Scoring

Kopitar set the ice on fire by leveling the score 13 seconds into the final period. His go-ahead goal on a power-play with just 98 seconds left was the game-changer. He then sealed the win by hitting an empty net. Alex Tuch, on the other hand, managed to score his own rebound on a shorthanded breakaway with barely 3 minutes remaining in the second period, leaving the Sabres 0-3 following their double defeat to New Jersey in Prague last week.

Kings’ Performance: Overcoming Obstacles

The Kings’ lackluster offense, which was outshot 28-10 through two periods and 33-22 overall, could not be excused by the absence of key defenseman, Drew Doughty, who succumbed to a broken ankle. Kuemper, who was traded from Washington in the offseason, saved the day by stopping a penalty shot from Ryan McLeod and making a diving stop to foil McLeod’s wrap-around attempt.

Struggling Sabres: Scoring Woes Continue

Scoring has been a major stumbling block for the Sabres, who managed to net only a single goal in each of their season-opening losses to New Jersey. Their power play record now stands at a lamentable 0-of-10, after failing on all five chances against the Kings, including a two-man advantage that extended for 69 seconds in the first period.

Turning Point: Dahlin’s Costly Mistake

The Sabres’ fate was sealed when team captain Rasmus Dahlin fumbled the puck at the end boards, allowing Alex Laferriere to assist Kopitar in scoring his first goal.

Kopitar’s Impressive Track Record

Kopitar’s performance in the season opener stretched his record to 26 points in 18 season-opening games, making him the NHL’s leading active skater, and nudging him two points ahead of Alex Ovechkin, who begins the season with the Capitals on Saturday.

Looking Ahead

After being on the road since October 1 with preseason games in Quebec City, the Kings are set to continue their seven-game season-opening road trip in Boston on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Sabres will host the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, on Saturday.

William Caldwell is a veteran journalist whose career has spanned the highs and lows of the sports world. With a focus on baseball and hockey, William’s articles are known for their depth and historical perspective, making him a favorite among fans who appreciate the rich traditions of sports. Outside the press box, William is an amateur historian with a particular interest in sports memorabilia.