Tage Thompson and Jack Quinn each scored in the shootout as the Buffalo Sabres edged the Seattle Kraken 3-2 on Saturday night. Buffalo recovered from an early deficit and relied on steady goaltending to secure the win.
The Sabres ended a three-game winless stretch and maintained their position near the top of the Atlantic Division. Seattle, meanwhile, continued a difficult run, dropping five of its last six games despite another competitive effort.
Buffalo’s comeback and composure in the shootout proved decisive. The team responded after falling behind by two goals and managed the late stages with control.
Kraken Strike Early With Two-Goal Lead
Seattle opened the game with pace and created early chances. Chandler Stephenson gave the Kraken a 1-0 lead in the first period after forcing a turnover at the blue line and finishing from the left slot.
The Kraken extended the lead in the second period. Bobby McMann scored on a breakaway to make it 2-0. The goal continued his strong run since joining Seattle, as he has contributed consistently in recent games.
Seattle controlled play during the early stages. The team moved the puck effectively and pressured Buffalo’s defense. Kaapo Kakko played a key role in the offense, recording two assists.
Despite the strong start, Seattle could not maintain its advantage. The Sabres adjusted and began to shift momentum.
Sabres Respond With Timely Goals
Buffalo found its rhythm in the second period. Rasmus Dahlin scored on a power play to cut the deficit to 2-1. The goal marked his 100th in the NHL and came at a key moment as the Sabres looked to regain control.
The Sabres continued to press in the third period. Peyton Krebs tied the game with 8:21 remaining, finishing from the right circle after a turnover created by Zach Benson.
Buffalo’s ability to generate offense from turnovers proved important. The team capitalized on mistakes and converted them into scoring chances.
The tying goal shifted the momentum fully in Buffalo’s favor. Seattle’s defense tightened, but the Sabres maintained pressure and forced overtime.
Goaltending Keeps Game Tight
Both goaltenders played key roles in keeping the score close. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 32 saves for Buffalo and remained steady throughout the game. He handled Seattle’s early pressure and kept the Sabres within reach.
Philipp Grubauer stopped 34 shots for the Kraken. He faced a high volume of attempts, especially in the second half of the game, and made several important saves.
Neither team scored in overtime. The pace slowed as both sides focused on limiting mistakes and protecting possession.
Shootout Execution Decides Outcome
The shootout provided the final difference. Thompson and Quinn both converted for Buffalo, showing composure under pressure.
Luukkonen stopped both Seattle attempts, securing the win for the Sabres. His performance in the shootout capped a strong overall effort in goal.
Seattle could not find a response in the final phase. Despite strong offensive stretches earlier in the game, the Kraken did not convert in the shootout.
Injury Concern For Seattle
The game included a potential concern for Seattle. Forward Shane Wright left the game late in the first period after a collision along the boards.
Wright was reaching for the puck when a hit from Buffalo defenseman Logan Stanley made contact with his helmet. He did not return to the game, and his status remains uncertain.
The loss of Wright affected Seattle’s depth. The team adjusted its lines but could not fully offset the shortfall.
Standings And Form
Buffalo remains in a strong position in the Atlantic Division. The win keeps the Sabres ahead of Tampa Bay and reinforces their consistent form over recent months.
Seattle continues to struggle to maintain momentum. The Kraken have competed in close games but have struggled to convert results into wins.
The difference in execution during key moments has defined recent outcomes for both teams. Buffalo has managed late situations effectively, while Seattle has fallen short.
Looking Ahead
The Kraken travel to Edmonton for their next game. They will look to stabilize their performance and improve consistency.
Buffalo returns home to face the New York Islanders. The Sabres aim to build on this result and extend their positive stretch.
The game highlighted the importance of discipline and execution in tight contests. Buffalo capitalized on its opportunities and delivered in the decisive moments.
