Buffalo Sabres forward Tage Thompson made NHL history with a record-breaking shot clocked at 106.0 mph in a game against the Dallas Stars. This shot is officially the hardest shot registered in a game since the tracking era began at the start of the 2021-22 season. This achievement came only two months after Thompson set his prior NHL-best of 104.69 mph during a game against the Detroit Red Wings. Despite the impressive shot, Thompson’s attempt did not reach the net as it was intended as a pass to his teammate, ultimately leading to a shift in momentum for Dallas. Thompson leads all forwards this season with two shots exceeding 100 mph and 19 attempts clocking in at over 90 mph.
Although the Sabres may be amidst the longest playoff drought in the league, Thompson’s impressive performance on the ice has been a key factor in the team’s success. Despite the team’s struggles, Thompson leads the Sabres with 30 points and is on track to have one of the most productive seasons in his eight-year career. In the 2022-23 season, Thompson broke out with 94 points, highlighting his importance to the Sabres’ success on the ice. Thompson’s presence on the score sheet has been consistently correlated with the team’s performance, as demonstrated by the Sabres’ winless streak when he went five games without a goal.
Thompson’s recent injury may be impacting his performance on the ice, as his expected goals are down compared to last season. Despite this setback, Thompson’s contributions to the team remain crucial as the Sabres continue to strive towards ending their playoff drought. Currently last in the Atlantic Division, the Sabres are on track to miss the playoffs for the 14th consecutive season as they head into their next game against the Colorado Avalanche. Thompson’s ability to produce on the ice and lead the team in points highlights his importance to the Sabres as they navigate through the challenges of the NHL season.
Thompson’s record-breaking shot adds to the excitement of the NHL season, showcasing the incredible talent and skill of players like Thompson on the ice. The achievement comes amidst a season of notable velocities in the NHL, underlining the level of competition and performance across the league. Thompson’s impressive feat not only sets a new standard for shot speeds but also highlights the dedication and hard work of players like Thompson who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible on the ice. As the NHL season progresses, fans can look forward to more exciting moments and record-breaking performances from players like Thompson who are making their mark in the league.
Despite the Sabres’ struggles, Thompson’s performance and achievements serve as a bright spot for the team and its fans. His record-breaking shot and consistent contributions to the team’s success demonstrate his value as a key player for the Sabres. As the season continues, Thompson’s presence on the ice will be crucial for the Sabres as they aim to improve their standings and work towards ending their playoff drought. Thompson’s dedication to his craft and ability to excel under pressure make him a standout player in the NHL and a key asset for the Buffalo Sabres as they navigate the challenges of the season. Fans can look forward to more exciting moments from Thompson and other talented players as the NHL season unfolds.
