Sabres Look to Rebound as Luukkonen Set to Start Against Senators

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ICARO Media Group
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24/10/2023 23h33

The Buffalo Sabres are aiming to turn their fortunes around as they prepare to face off against the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre on Tuesday. After a disappointing loss to the Montreal Canadiens, the Sabres currently stand at 2-4 on the season. However, they have a chance to bounce back with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen "more than likely" getting the start in goal for the upcoming game.

Sabres coach Don Granato confirmed that Luukkonen will make his season debut in Ottawa, as starting goaltender Devon Levi continues to recover from a lower-body injury. Granato expressed the importance of giving Levi ample rest to fully heal the issue. In the meantime, Eric Comrie has led the team in the last two games, including the previous match against the Canadiens.

Last season, Luukkonen showcased his skills by earning 17 wins in 32 starts. In January, he was named the NHL's Rookie of the Month with an impressive 6-2-1 record. The Sabres will undoubtedly be looking for a strong performance from Luukkonen on Tuesday to help secure a victory and improve their season record.

In their recent game against the Canadiens, the Sabres fought hard but were unable to overcome Montreal's goaltender Jake Allen. Despite outshooting their opponents 37-27, Buffalo managed to score only once, thanks to Jeff Skinner's goal. Brendan Gallagher and Tanner Pearson sealed the Canadiens' victory with timely goals. Sabres forward Tage Thompson acknowledged the team's efforts, emphasizing the need to convert opportunities and find the back of the net more effectively.

On a positive note, Dylan Cozens and Rasmus Dahlin extended their respective point streaks with contributions in the previous game. Cozens has recorded at least a point in four consecutive contests, while Dahlin leads the team with six points, accumulated over five games. Dahlin's consistent performance has also propelled him to tie for the second-most point streaks of five or more games among Sabres defensemen.

The Sabres have shown strength on the penalty kill, with a success rate of 20-of-22 penalties so far this season. Against Montreal, defenseman Erik Johnson once again led the team in shorthanded minutes, showcasing his defensive prowess.

As for the Senators, they currently boast a record of 3-2. Key contributors for Ottawa include Brady Tkachuk, Jake Sanderson, Tim Stutzle, and Vladimir Tarasenko, each with six points. Goaltender Anton Forsberg has been impressive in his two starts, boasting a .933 save percentage and a 1.50 goals-against average.

The stage is set for an exciting matchup between the Buffalo Sabres and the Ottawa Senators. With Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen taking the reins in goal for the Sabres and the Senators' formidable offensive line, fans can anticipate an intense battle on the ice. Buffalo is determined to rebound from their recent loss and secure a vital win to improve their record as the season progresses.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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