The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Montreal Canadiens, 3-2, to even their second-round playoff series at two games apiece on May 13. The game took place at Bell Centre and featured a number of dramatic moments, including a video review reversal, several penalties, and a key goaltending performance by Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.
The outcome is significant for the Sabres after they suffered two heavy losses earlier in the series. Their ability to respond under pressure keeps their playoff hopes alive and demonstrates resilience within the team.
Zach Benson scored the winning goal early in the third period on a power play. Luukkonen made 28 saves in his first appearance since Game 2 of the first round. “Our belief never wavered,” Benson said after the game. Tage Thompson added, “I don’t think there’s ever been wavering confidence in our group all season. From Day 1, we had people doubting us and counting us out. It’s all these guys inside this room, our staff, that’s the only opinions that matter in here, and we all believe in each other.” Coach Lindy Ruff commented on controversial calls during the match: “There was a lot of elements that went the other way… Which I totally disagree with… He initiated the contact with (Konsta) Helenius with his stick coming across the crease.”
Buffalo overcame an overturned goal following video review and then regrouped after falling behind late in the first period. In addition to Benson’s decisive goal, Thompson scored from center ice off an unusual bounce during a four-minute power play.
The Sabres’ penalty kill was effective throughout Game 4 as they finished shorthanded six out of seven times successfully. Defensive efforts included blocking twelve shots after taking their final lead; Mattias Samuelsson led with six blocks and six hits while logging nearly twenty-four minutes of ice time.
Luukkonen’s performance was highlighted by several key saves late in regulation as Montreal pressed for an equalizer. “He’s a dog,” Benson said about Luukkonen’s effort. Ruff credited his team’s collective approach: “It’s more about winning, and it doesn’t matter who’s getting the wins.”
Game five will be held at KeyBank Center on Thursday evening.
