The Buffalo Sabres’ five-game win streak came to an end Thursday night with a 3-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena.
Buffalo (35-37-6) jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first period behind goals from JJ Peterka and Rasmus Dahlin. Peterka scored his 25th of the season on a breakaway, while Dahlin followed with a slick wrister after a crafty move at the blue line. Columbus (36-33-9) answered just before the intermission, as James van Riemsdyk converted on a breakaway with eight seconds left.
The Sabres dominated the second period, outshooting Columbus 18-7, but were unable to extend their lead. Blue Jackets goaltender Jet Greaves, called up earlier in the day, stood tall with 39 saves in his season debut.
Columbus took control in the third, scoring twice in under three minutes. Zach Aston-Reese tied the game with a long-range shot, and Boone Jenner scored on the power play shortly after to give the Blue Jackets the lead. Buffalo pushed hard late, including a 6-on-5 advantage in the final two minutes, but couldn’t break through.
James Reimer made 27 saves in the loss, ending his seven-game win streak.
Buffalo continues its road trip Saturday night against the Florida Panthers, with puck drop set for 6 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].