The Buffalo Sabres fell 4-3 in overtime to the Boston Bruins on Wednesday night at KeyBank Center, surrendering a late lead after a strong push in the third period.
Buffalo (44-20-8) trailed 2-1 entering the final frame before scoring twice in a 33-second span to take a 3-2 advantage. Jason Zucker led the charge with two goals in the game, while Zach Benson added a score to extend his point streak to four games. Tage Thompson contributed two assists as the Sabres generated timely offense to briefly seize control.
Boston answered with the tying goal with 6:00 remaining in regulation, forcing overtime, where the Bruins capitalized for the game-winner. Despite the result, Buffalo secured a point and extended its stretch of earning at least one point to 21 of its last 24 games, going 18-3-3 in that span.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 27 saves, keeping the Sabres within striking distance throughout. Defensively, Conor Timmins returned to the lineup for the first time since December 18 after recovering from a broken leg. Skating 15:30, Timmins recorded two blocked shots and two hits while contributing on the penalty kill alongside Logan Stanley.
With 96 points, Buffalo improved its lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning to three points atop the Atlantic Division and remained tied with the Carolina Hurricanes for first place in the Eastern Conference.
The Sabres continue their homestand Friday against the Detroit Red Wings, with puck drop set for 7 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.