In a heartwarming display of solidarity, the Buffalo Sabres dedicated their thrilling overtime victory to Damar Hamlin, the Buffalo Bills player who fought for his life after a cardiac arrest on the field.
The Sabres’ win was a testament to the city’s resilience and unity, with the number three – Hamlin’s jersey number – emerging as a recurring theme throughout the evening. Tage Thompson’s hat-trick, his third of the season, sealed the 5-4 win, with his third goal coming in the third minute of overtime.
As the teams took to the ice, they wore “Love for 3” shirts and observed a moment of silence, with Hamlin’s smiling face projected on the scoreboard.
The Sabres’ general manager, Kevyn Adams, wore a No. 3 sticker on his lapel, symbolizing the team’s connection to the city and its players. Adams acknowledged the emotional toll of Hamlin’s collapse, but emphasized the team’s determination to come together and support each other.
The win was a beacon of hope for the city, as Hamlin remains in critical condition. His uncle, Dorrian Glenn, reported that Hamlin is showing signs of improvement, but remains sedated and on a ventilator.
The Sabres and Bills, united under the same ownership, stand together in support of Hamlin and his family. In a city where sports transcends rivalry, the Sabres’ victory was a testament to the power of unity and the human spirit.