The Buffalo Sabres staged an impressive comeback to defeat the Minnesota Wild in a thrilling 3-2 victory on Saturday (Feb. 17). With just 37 seconds left in regulation and goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen pulled for an extra attacker, Dylan Cozens managed to tie the game, sending it to overtime. Henri Jokiharju then sealed the win for the Sabres with his goal just 1:29 into overtime.
Luukkonen played a crucial role in the victory, making 31 saves to help bring home the win for Buffalo, only their second victory in five games since the All-Star Break. Casey Mittelstadt also scored for the Sabres.
The Wild, who had won four straight games before this match, were unable to hold off the Sabres’ late surge. Cozens’ tying goal, which came off a scramble in front of the net, showed Buffalo’s determination to mount a successful comeback against a hot opponent coming into the game.
Item 1: 3 Reasons the Sabres Won the Game
In my opinion, there are three reasons why the Sabres beat the Wild on Saturday. First, there’s nothing sweeter than coming back to secure a win. The Sabres’ late-game heroics were exactly what they needed, and Cozens came through when it mattered most. He worked hard in front of the opposition’s goalie to knock the puck across the goal line. No hard work, no goal, and no overtime.
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Second, Jokiharju scored the winner for the Sabres early in overtime with a wrist shot from the top of the slot. Despite being primarily known for his defensive abilities, he delivered the game-winning goal.
Third, once again, the Sabres had strong goaltending. Luukkonen stood tall in the crease, and his solid play kept his team in the game despite encountering a ton of pressure from the Wild’s offense. He made key saves at key times, which allowed the Sabres to hang in the game.
Item 2: Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen Has Another Solid Game
More specifically, about Luukkonen’s stellar play, he made 30 saves in the game and has continued to be a pleasant surprise for the Sabres. Since the December break, he’s been on fire. Even given the Sabres’ iffy play at times, he’s put up an impressive 8-5-0 record. Of those wins, three have been shutouts. He’s also allowed just 21 goals over his 13 games.
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