NHL: N.Y. Islanders 5, Buffalo 3

UNIONDALE, N.Y., Jan. 15 (UPI) -- John Tavares logged a pure hat trick in the second period Saturday, powering the New York Islanders' 5-3 victory over Buffalo.

Trailing 1-0 in the middle frame, Tavares scored three straight goals for the Islanders in less than 6 minutes, stunning the Sabres with his offensive onslaught.

The hat trick was the second of Tavares' career.

Blake Comeau and Michael Grabner found the net and Matt Moulson also scored for New York, which got 40 saves from Rick DiPietro while halting a three-game losing streak.

Tyler Ennis and Thomas Vanek contributed a goal and an assist each, and Jochen Hecht also scored for the Sabres.

Buffalo goalie Ryan Miller turned aside 32-of-37 shots.