Dallas Stars defeated Buffalo Sabres 4-3 last night on the road, improving their record and picking up a key win. The game was scoreless through most of the first period before Dallas Stars broke through late. Buffalo Sabres equalized in the second to set up a tense third period — both goaltenders made key saves to keep it level. Dallas Stars potted the game-winner with under five minutes remaining to clinch a hard-earned victory. With the win, Dallas Stars improves to 50-20. Buffalo Sabres falls to 50-23 but remains in solid standing — a quick turnaround is expected.

New York Rangers defeated Tampa Bay Lightning 4-2 last night on the road, improving their record and picking up a crucial win. New York Rangers struck first in the opening period and never truly surrendered the lead. Tampa Bay Lightning pulled one back in the second period to make it interesting, but New York Rangers responded quickly — a power play goal in the third period put the game away. With the win, New York Rangers improves to 34-39. Tampa Bay Lightning falls to 50-26 but remains in solid standing — a quick turnaround is expected.

Florida Panthers defeated Detroit Red Wings 8-1 last night at home, improving their record and picking up a key win. A disastrous second period from Detroit Red Wings put this game out of reach early. Florida Panthers scored three times in a dominant middle frame, and pulled away further in the third as Detroit Red Wings chased the game and left space on the counter. With the win, Florida Panthers improves to 40-38. Detroit Red Wings slips to 41-31 and needs a response.

Ottawa Senators defeated Toronto Maple Leafs 3-1 last night at home, improving their record and picking up a crucial win. Ottawa Senators struck first in the opening period and never truly surrendered the lead. Toronto Maple Leafs pulled one back in the second period to make it interesting, but Ottawa Senators responded quickly — a power play goal in the third period put the game away. With the win, Ottawa Senators improves to 44-27. Toronto Maple Leafs drops to 32-36 and the pressure is mounting.

Chicago Blackhawks defeated San Jose Sharks 5-2 last night at home, improving their record and picking up a key win. Chicago Blackhawks dominated puck possession from the drop of the puck, converting on their chances while their goaltender kept it clean at the other end. By the third period the lead was comfortable and Chicago Blackhawks managed the clock effectively, limiting San Jose Sharks to minimal quality chances. With the win, Chicago Blackhawks improves to 29-39. San Jose Sharks slips to 38-35 and needs a response.

Vegas Golden Knights defeated Seattle Kraken 4-1 last night at home, improving their record and picking up a key win. Vegas Golden Knights dominated puck possession from the drop of the puck, converting on their chances while their goaltender kept it clean at the other end. By the third period the lead was comfortable and Vegas Golden Knights managed the clock effectively, limiting Seattle Kraken to minimal quality chances. With the win, Vegas Golden Knights improves to 39-26. Seattle Kraken slips to 34-36 and needs a response.