The Sabres defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning, 6-2, on Saturday at Benchmark International Arena, moving within four points of the division lead with 76 points on the season.
Buffalo closed out a 3-0-0 road trip with an offensive breakout that chased Tampa Bay goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy early in the second period. The Sabres scored five goals on 14 shots against Vasilevskiy, all at even strength.
Josh Norris led the attack with two goals, while Rasmus Dahlin recorded a goal and two assists. Zach Metsa contributed a goal and an assist, and Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch each added a goal. Buffalo’s balanced scoring helped build an early advantage that the Lightning could not overcome.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stopped 36-of-38 shots to earn his 10th win in his last 13 starts, matching the best 13-game stretch of his career. Tampa Bay generated steady pressure, but Luukkonen controlled rebounds and limited second-chance opportunities.
Zach Benson returned from injured reserve after missing four games and logged 13:39 of ice time, registering an assist and two hits while skating on the fourth line.
Buffalo has been one of the league’s strongest road teams since December 9, posting a 16-2-1 mark away from home during that span.
The Sabres continue their homestand Tuesday, March 3, hosting the Vegas Golden Knights at 7 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].