WINNIPEG, Manitoba — The Buffalo Sabres surged past the Western Conference-leading Winnipeg Jets with a 5-3 victory on Sunday, powered by Ryan McLeod’s outstanding performance of one goal and three assists. In net, James Reimer was formidable, making 33 saves to secure the win for Buffalo.
The Jets narrowly missed clinching a playoff spot and needed just one point to solidify their place. They still had hope to secure a postseason spot if the St. Louis Blues suffered a defeat against the Nashville Predators later in the day.
Adding to the Sabres’ offensive strike, J.J. Peterka, Rasmus Dahlin, Tyson Kozak, and Alex Tuch found the back of the net. Jacob Bernard-Docker also contributed with two assists, marking a positive showing for Buffalo, which has been struggling at the bottom of the Eastern Conference after a 4-1 loss to Minnesota the day before.
For the Jets, Nino Niederreiter, Colin Miller, and Nikolaj Ehlers responded with goals in the opening game of a four-game home stint. Logan Stanley added two assists for Winnipeg, while backup goalie Eric Comrie, stepping in for his 18th start of the season, managed 12 saves despite the team’s setback.
Significant Takeaways:
The loss ended Winnipeg’s home point streak at eight games (7-1-1). They suffered their third regulation loss at Canada Life Centre over the last 23 games with a record of 16-3-4. Historically, Winnipeg has had an impressive 7-1-0 record this season when facing a team that played the day before on home ice.
For Buffalo, Peterka continued to shine, extending his goal streak to three consecutive games. He has scored 10 points (five goals, five assists) in his last nine matchups. However, winger Jordan Greenway left the game prematurely after blocking a shot in the opening period.
Crucial Turn:
The pivotal moment of the game unfolded when McLeod seized a loose puck during a penalty kill and set up Tuch, who netted a goal past Comrie to extend Buffalo’s lead to 4-2, with just over six minutes left in regulation.
Impactful Statistic:
Reimer’s exceptional performance with 33 saves was instrumental in the Sabres’ triumph.
Looking ahead, the Sabres are set to face off against the Senators on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Jets will meet the Capitals on the same evening.
