BUFFALO, N.Y. — Commit one penalty against the Avalanche, and hold your breath. Commit two in succession, and start digging yourself a grave.
The Sabres led 2-1 nearing the halfway point of the second period when Henri Jokiharju went to the box for hooking Nathan MacKinnon. Four seconds later, Artturi Lehkonen caught a high stick in the face.
Those who drew the penalties also reaped the rewards in the same order, scoring power play goals 49 seconds apart to give Colorado a 3-2 lead and awaken the Avalanche’s offense in a 6-4 win.
“I liked our 5-on-5 game tonight,” coach Jared Bednar said, despite 30 minutes of the game being played in special teams.