NHL2 hours ago2 minute read

Sabres Forward Jiri Kulich Hits Game Winner After Year Out With Blood Clot

Buffalo Sabres forward Jiri Kulich scored the game winner against Chicago after missing nearly a year with a career threatening blood clot.

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The Comeback Goal

Jiri Kulich is back. The Buffalo Sabres forward scored the winning goal with 6:40 remaining on Saturday to give his team a 4-3 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks.

The goal capped off a comeback for Buffalo, who rallied from a two goal deficit in their home opener. For Kulich, it was his first regular season goal in almost a year. He missed the final 70 games of last season due to a blood clot issue.

After scoring, Kulich punched the air and celebrated with teammates. "After that one, it was a lot of emotions," Kulich said. "So yeah, that one is going to be special for sure."

Overcoming a Scary Health Battle

The Czech forward, who is 22 years old, was a first round draft pick in 2022. He had a strong rookie season two years ago, scoring 15 goals. However, his career was put on hold just 12 games into last season.

Kulich started experiencing dizzy spells, and medical tests revealed a blood clot. He underwent surgery in March at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.

Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin, who scored the game tying goal on Saturday, praised his teammate. Dahlin said it is hard to put into words how much Kulich has been grinding to get back. He added that he was super happy to see him playing hockey again.

Earning the Coach's Trust

Kulich started the game on the fourth line but worked his way up to the third line, playing 13 and a half minutes.

The game winning play happened after Kulich drove to the net. Tage Thompson recovered a loose puck and passed to Owen Power. Power then sent a pass through two defenders to set up Kulich. Kulich admitted he just closed his eyes and somehow put it in.

Sabres coach Lindy Ruff showed massive faith in the young forward. Ruff kept Kulich on the ice during the final minute of the game when Chicago pulled their goalie for an extra attacker.

What it means for the next game

Minnesota Wild at Buffalo Sabres (NHL, Tue, 06 Oct): Buffalo Sabres win 49%, Minnesota Wild win 51%; projected score Buffalo Sabres 3, Minnesota Wild 3. Our safest pick: Wild +2.

St. Louis Blues at Chicago Blackhawks (NHL, Wed, 07 Oct): Chicago Blackhawks win 46%, St. Louis Blues win 54%; projected score Chicago Blackhawks 3, St. Louis Blues 3. Our safest pick: Blackhawks +1.5. Our best value pick: Blackhawks +1.5.