The Buffalo Sabres fell 6-2 to the Washington Capitals on Saturday night at Capital One Arena, unable to recover from an early three-goal deficit just hours after clinching their first playoff berth since 2011.
Buffalo dropped consecutive regulation games for the first time since early December and remains tied for second place in the Atlantic Division. The Capitals seized control early, scoring three goals in a 2:37 span in the first period to build a 3-0 lead.
Jakob Chychrun, Dylan Strome, and Connor McMichael fueled the surge, forcing a quick change in net for Buffalo. Alex Lyon was pulled after allowing three goals on five shots, and Colten Ellis entered, making his first appearance since February 3.
The Sabres responded with first-period goals from Rasmus Dahlin and Beck Malenstyn to cut the deficit to 3-2, but could not generate further offense despite outshooting Washington 39-24. Buffalo went scoreless over the final two periods, unable to capitalize on five power-play opportunities, including a brief 5-on-3.
Ellis settled in with 17 saves on 19 shots in relief, but the Capitals pulled away with three unanswered goals to secure the win.
Buffalo has five regular-season games remaining as it prepares for the postseason.
The Sabres return home Monday to face the Tampa Bay Lightning, 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.