Peyton Krebs sparked a long-awaited fast start as the Buffalo Sabres defeated the Boston Bruins 6-1 in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series at TD Garden on Sunday afternoon, pushing Buffalo’s series lead to 3-1. The Sabres, who had been searching for an early breakthrough all series, struck just 4:17 into the opening period and never let up, overwhelming Boston with a dominant first frame and seizing full control.
Buffalo dictated play from the outset, outshooting Boston 19-5 in the first period while building a 4-0 cushion on goals from Krebs, Josh Doan, Zach Benson, and Bowen Byram. The offensive surge continued into the third period, where Beck Malenstyn and Alex Tuch added insurance. Tuch’s goal forced Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman out after he surrendered six goals on 29 shots, with Joonas Korpisalo taking over in relief.
Alex Lyon turned aside 21 shots in his second straight start, losing the shutout bid only in the final minute on a goal by Sean Kuraly. Krebs and Owen Power each recorded a point for the fourth consecutive game to open their playoff careers, matching a franchise mark set by Danny Gare. Byram and Tuch also extended their point streaks to four games, tying for the team lead with three goals apiece, while Tuch leads Buffalo with six points this postseason.
Game 5 shifts to KeyBank Center in Buffalo at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, where the Sabres will look to close out the series and advance to the next round.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].