NEW YORK (AP) – Jason Zucker scored the decisive goal early in the third period, leading the Buffalo Sabres to a 5-3 victory over the New York Rangers on Wednesday night.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen contributed with 17 saves, ensuring the Sabres’ success in a crucial matchup.
Zucker netted his 24th goal of the season at 7:14 in the third, shortly after teammate Alex Tuch tied the game with his 31st goal at 5:50. This win marks a significant achievement for the Sabres, who will participate in the postseason for the first time since the 2010-11 season.
Sabres’ Offensive Performance
Zach Benson scored two goals, while Ryan McLeod added another, as the Sabres celebrated their 48th victory of the season. This performance stands in stark contrast to last year, when the team finished with 79 points and missed the playoffs for the 14th consecutive season. Buffalo’s record now boasts an impressive 22-6-3 in the last 31 games, including a league-best 16 wins and 34 points since the Olympic break.
Rangers’ Struggles
The Rangers’ Alexis Lafreniere also had a notable night, scoring twice, along with Adam Fox contributing a goal. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin made 22 saves during the game. Despite winning five out of their last seven home games, New York’s overall performance at home has been disappointing, with only 14 wins in 41 games this season.
Game Highlights
McLeod initiated the scoring at 4:40 of the first period, followed by Benson’s goal at 8:58. Lafreniere responded with a power-play goal at 19:21, then scored again at 2:57 of the second period, bringing his season total to 24 goals. Fox briefly put the Rangers ahead at 14:44 in the second before the Sabres mounted their comeback.
Benson sealed the game with an empty-net goal at 18:44, marking his 12th of the season. The Rangers will miss the playoffs for the second consecutive year, following their Presidents’ Trophy win in the 2023-24 season, where they amassed 114 points and 55 wins, including 30 at home.
Postseason Outlook
Under the guidance of coach Lindy Ruff, who previously led the team to the Stanley Cup Final in 1999, the Sabres have achieved 104 points, placing them two points ahead of Tampa Bay and Montreal in the Atlantic Division.
Upcoming Matches
The Rangers are set to visit the Dallas Stars on Saturday to begin a season-ending three-game road trip. Meanwhile, the Sabres will host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday night, looking to maintain their momentum as they head into the postseason.