In a thrilling yet heartbreaking game for Buffalo Sabres fans, the Colorado Avalanche orchestrated a historic comeback to win 5-4 on Tuesday night at KeyBank Center. Despite a dominant four-goal first period from the Sabres, Colorado’s relentless third-period surge extended Buffalo’s losing streak to four games—their longest of the season.
First-Period Blitz Sets the Stage
The Sabres came out firing on all cylinders in the opening period, displaying a level of offensive efficiency that had the home crowd roaring. Tage Thompson opened the scoring just over three minutes into the game, capitalizing on a rebound off Connor Clifton’s shot that rattled the crossbar. Moments later, Thompson struck again with a backhand finish after an excellent setup by Jason Zucker, whose forecheck had disrupted Colorado’s Mikko Rantanen.
The onslaught continued as JJ Peterka snapped a six-game scoring drought, converting a pinpoint cross-ice feed from Zach Benson just 11 seconds after Thompson’s second tally. Beck Malenstyn capped the dominant first frame with a breakaway goal, chasing Avalanche starting goaltender Alexandar Georgiev after just 11:49 of action.
Avalanche Mount Their Comeback
Despite being outshot and outpaced in the first, Colorado regrouped in the second period. Nathan MacKinnon ignited the comeback with an unassisted goal at 2:24 of the middle frame, exploiting a defensive turnover to beat Buffalo goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.
The Sabres weathered the storm for the remainder of the second period, but cracks in their defensive structure became evident. A third-period meltdown soon followed.
Third-Period Collapse
Colorado wasted no time in the final frame, with Joel Kiviranta and Logan O’Connor scoring in quick succession to reduce Buffalo’s lead to 4-3 by the 4:30 mark. MacKinnon then leveled the game at 7:39, tipping Rantanen’s point shot past Luukkonen.
Artturi Lehkonen completed the Avalanche’s improbable rally with the game-winning goal at 15:38, burying a rebound that Buffalo’s goaltending could not control. Scott Wedgewood, who replaced Georgiev in the first period, made 22 saves and stood tall during Buffalo’s final-minute surge.
Key Takeaways
- Offensive Spark from Line Changes: Coach Lindy Ruff’s adjustments paid off early, with Jason Zucker playing a pivotal role on the top line alongside Thompson and Alex Tuch.
- Defensive Breakdowns Cost Buffalo: Despite a strong start, turnovers and missed defensive assignments allowed Colorado to claw their way back into the game.
- Injuries and Fatigue: Rasmus Dahlin played just one shift in the third period before leaving with back spasms, limiting Buffalo’s defensive depth during Colorado’s comeback.
Historical Context
The loss marks only the second time in Sabres franchise history that the team has blown a four-goal lead. The previous occurrence dates back to 1988 against the Calgary Flames. Tuesday’s collapse underscores the need for consistency as the Sabres aim to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference standings.
Looking Ahead
The Sabres (11-12-2) will look to halt their skid as they continue their homestand against the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. at KeyBank Center.