The Buffalo Sabres lost 6-3 to the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday at Ball Arena. The game began with an early goal from Martin Necas of the Avalanche, who scored on a breakaway just 52 seconds after the start. The first period saw five goals in less than 13 minutes.
Sabres goaltender Alex Lyon started but was replaced after allowing two goals on three shots. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen came in as relief and finished with 26 saves on 29 shots.
Buffalo managed to tie the game during the second period when Tage Thompson scored a power-play goal. However, Colorado quickly regained the lead with a goal by Gavin Brindley, whose shot deflected off a defender’s stick.
In the third period, Buffalo pressed for another equalizer and had a late power play opportunity. Colorado extended its lead with Necas scoring his second goal of the night, followed by an empty-net goal from Gabriel Landeskog.
Thompson recorded both a goal and an assist for Buffalo. Bowen Byram and Jordan Greenway also found the net for the Sabres. The team played without five forwards due to injuries or illness and was also missing defenseman Rasmus Dahlin, who is currently on personal leave.
The loss marks four consecutive regulation defeats for Buffalo. The Sabres will conclude their road trip Saturday against Detroit, with coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m. on MSG and puck drop set for 7 p.m.
