Sabres Top Thrashers in Pegula's Debut

BUFFALO (WIVB) - Terry Pegula is 1-0 as an NHL owner.  In Pegula's debut as the new boss of the Sabres, the players responded by ending their three game losing streak and beating Atlanta 4-1.  It also ends a four game home losing streak, and moves the Sabres within three points of Carolina for the final playoff spot in the East.

Buffalo had been tied with Atlanta for ninth place.

The Sabres broke open a 1-1 game with a pair of goals late in the second period.  Paul Gaustad scored with 1:08 left, and then Jason Pominville scored thirty seconds later with 38 seconds remaining.

Tyler Myers scored in the first, and Tyler Ennis capped the scoring with a goal in the third.  Myers also assisted on Pominville's goal.  Nine different Sabres had a point in the game.

Ryan Miller made 40 saves for the victory.

The atmosphere was electic in the building, as Pegula took part in a pregame ceremony with the French Connection.  Pegula also spoke with the players following the win, and they presented him with the winning puck.

Before the game, the Sabres waived defenseman Craig Rivet.  The veteran captain has been scratched for the last 16 games, and has not played regularly for most of the season.  GM Darcy Regier said the move was requested by Rivet's agent, after trade talks failed.  NHL teams have until noon Thursday to claim Rivet.  If not, he could remain on the team or be sent to AHL Portland. 

Regier said he'll address the captain situation with Lindy Ruff once Rivet's status becomes clear.