But Federer remained serene throughout and, like a true champion, raised his level when it counted, breaking with a backhand pass in game 12 to take the vital set.

BBC: SPORT | Tennis | Federer claims US Open hat-trick

During one sequence, Nash fed Ryan Callahan, who spun around as he drove to the left post and sent a perfect no-look backhand pass across the crease to a hard-charging Derek Stepan.

WSJ: Jokinen leads Penguins by Rangers 2-1 in shootout

But Tavares, the No. 1 overall draft choice in 2009, gave the Islanders a 1-0 lead just 5:36 into the game by taking a backhand pass from Josh Bailey, taking an extra beat to pick a spot, then snapping a shot over the glove of Penguins goaltender Tomas Vokoun.

WSJ: Penguins End Islanders' Season

Another hold to love put Federer within a game of the 23-minute opening set and he took it at the second time of asking by unleashing a rasping cross-court backhand to pass Soderling at the net.

BBC: Federer claims historic Paris win

Rather than move the puck to the boards and out of danger, Niskanen attempted a backhand clearing pass up the middle only to send it directly to Porter, who had little trouble flipping a wrist shot by Vokoun for Porter's first goal since March 12, 2012.

WSJ: Penguins' 15-game winning streak snapped by Sabres

Sekera put the Sabres up 2-1 early in the second period when he sneaked in from the blue line, took a drop pass from Drew Stafford and beat Reimer on the backhand.

WSJ: Frattin lifts Maple Leafs over Sabres 4-3 in OT