Tage Thompson scored the tying goal in the second period and Jason Zucker secured the game-winning goal in the third, leading the Buffalo Sabres to a 2-1 preseason win over the Columbus Blue Jackets at KeyBank Center on Tuesday.
The Sabres now hold a 2-0 record in preseason play. Their opening match resulted in a 4-0 victory against Columbus on Monday. The team has emphasized defensive strength during training camp, which was evident in both games.
Goaltender Alex Lyon made his first appearance of the exhibition season, stopping 13 out of 14 shots. Devon Levi, who saved all six shots he faced in Monday’s third period, contributed by stopping five more shots during Tuesday’s final period to help maintain the lead.
Konsta Helenius assisted on Zucker’s winning goal, earning his second point across two preseason games. Helenius was among three players—along with Levi and forward Mason Geertsen—who played in both contests.
The scoring summary for Tuesday’s game included Miles Wood putting Columbus ahead with a power-play goal early in the second period. Thompson tied it later that period with assists from Zach Benson and Josh Norris. Zucker’s decisive goal came midway through the third, assisted by Helenius and Ryan McLeod.
The Sabres will continue their preseason schedule Thursday when they face the Detroit Red Wings. The game will be streamed on Sabres.com, with Dan Dunleavy and Rob Ray providing commentary on WGR 550.
