The second unit appears to be returning to a two-defenseman approach with forward Jiri Kulich, who usually sets up on the right flank, out with a lower-body injury. But predictability on Unit 1 has helped the group build and maintain its momentum during this latest hot streak.

Thompson scored a goal and added a power-play assist in Monday's 6-4 loss to the Kraken.

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen wasn't able to bail out the Sabres when they began to make mistakes in the second period. Their starting goalie was outplayed by Penguins backup Alex Nedeljkovic, as Pittsburgh scored four consecutive goals and held on for a 5-2 win in KeyBank Center.

The Buffalo Sabres (17-23-5) fell 5-2 to the Pittsburgh Penguins (19-20-8) on Friday night at KeyBank Center, despite a strong offensive effort that saw them outshoot Pittsburgh 42-19.