By Chuck Merlis
The Buffalo Sabres pulled out an overtime win Thursday night, defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-2. The loss was the second in a row for the Lighting and the team’s fourth straight loss at home.
The Sabres’ star defenseman, Rasmus Dahlin, scored the winning goal in overtime. His power-play goal sealed the game for Buffalo Dahlin’s goal, a rebound from a close-range shot off a pass from Casey Mittelstadt.
Nikita Kucherov of the Lightning was off for hooking when Dahlin found the net, an opportunity the Sabres capitalized on. Dahlin’s performance was a key factor in the game, with Phil Housley, the only Buffalo defenseman to have consecutive 10-goal seasons, noting Dahlin’s potential and importance to the team. “We’re lucky to have him,” said Mittelstadt of Dahlin’s contribution.
The game began with the Lightning taking an early lead. Brayden Point and Mitchell Chaffee scored for Tampa Bay, demonstrating their intent to maintain a strong position in the Eastern Conference wild-card spot. Tampa Bay’s left-wing, Brandon Hagel, ended his 10-game point streak.
The Sabres hung around, with Alex Tuch and Tage Thompson scoring, contributing to Buffalo’s comeback. Ukkopekka Luukkonen, Buffalo’s goaltender, stopped 14 shots, playing a crucial role in keeping the Sabres in the game. His performance was especially notable since Buffalo was coming off a loss at Florida on Tuesday night, 15 points behind Tampa Bay, which currently holds the second Eastern Conference wild-card spot.
The Lightning’s coach, Jon Cooper, expressed disappointment in the outcome, especially considering the controversial calls made during the game. “I think everybody in the building saw it, and they didn’t call it,” said Cooper, reflecting on a decision that might have changed the game’s direction. However, Cooper acknowledged the challenges and the need to move forward.
Tampa Bay’s goaltender, Andrei Vasilevskiy, made 15 saves but couldn’t prevent the Sabres’ final push in overtime. The Lightning has been strong in their four home games but faced a formidable challenge from the Sabres.
The Sabres’ victory is a morale booster as they host Vegas on Saturday night. Meanwhile, the Lightning will play the second of their five-game homestand against Montreal on Saturday. Both teams are looking forward to their next games, hoping to build on their performances.
For more details on the game, visit ESPN’s NHL recap here.