Buffalo, April 20: KeyBank Center hosts an exciting chapter in NHL history as the Buffalo Sabres return to the playoffs after a 15-year absence. The Sabres, who had missed the postseason for 14 consecutive years, are set to face the Boston Bruins in the Eastern Conference first round, showcasing a matchup between a surprising underdog and a seasoned contender.
The Sabres found themselves at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings on December 8. However, by the end of the regular season, they had climbed to second place, securing a home playoff game for their return.
While it’s uncertain how the Sabres will perform in this pivotal series, their strong second-half performance suggests they will be a challenging opponent. The Bruins, led by star player David Pastrnak, are not to be underestimated. They have navigated a competitive Eastern Conference to earn their playoff spot.
The NHL has recognized the significance of this matchup, scheduling it as the primetime ESPN game on Sunday night as the playoffs kick off.
Stay tuned for live updates and scores from Buffalo as The Sporting News covers the action from KeyBank Center.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins Live Score
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1st Period
2nd Period
3rd Period
Live score
Boston Bruins
1
0
1*
2
Buffalo Sabres
0
0
1*
1
Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins Live Updates
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Third Period
– With 7:58 remaining, Tage Thompson scores with a backhand wraparound. The game is on.
– Buffalo has only two shots on goal in the first 10 minutes of the third period. They need to ramp up their offense to mount a comeback.
– Jeremy Swayman made a crucial save against a shot from Josh Doan, maintaining a 2-0 lead for Boston with 13:38 left.
– Buffalo had a couple of shots during a power play but couldn’t capitalize. The score remains 2-0 with 15:20 to play.
– The Sabres received another power play opportunity with 17:19 remaining, following a penalty on David Pastrnak.
– Thompson skated off the ice, raising concerns about a possible injury or equipment issue.
– Elias Lindholm scored on a rebound just 1:08 into the third period, extending the Bruins’ lead to 2-0.
– The scoreboard featured Buffalo Bills players to energize the crowd as the third period began.
– Buffalo outshot Boston 27-13 through two periods. Will they break through?
– Action resumes around 9:40 p.m. ET.
Second Period
– Swayman ended the second period with 26 saves, keeping the score at 1-0 for the Bruins.
– The Sabres have outshot the Bruins 24-12 but have yet to score.
– Buffalo struggled to get a shot during a power play.
– The Sabres received a power play with 7:18 left in the second, following a penalty on Andrew Peeke.
– Buffalo is creating chances but failing to convert. The ice is being cleaned with 7:34 left in the second.
– UPL made a significant save against Pastrnak on a breakaway, a key moment with 9:41 remaining.
– Swayman has been exceptional, keeping Buffalo scoreless.
– UPL denied another Bruins breakaway with a big save.
– The Bruins successfully killed the penalty, returning to even strength with 17:30 left in the second.
– The second period resumes at about 8:42 p.m. ET.
First Period
– Swayman was the standout player of the first period, making 15 saves.
– The Sabres prevented the Bruins from scoring again before the period ended.
– Boston received a power play with 1:10 left in the first, following a penalty on Jason Zucker.
– The Sabres had three excellent chances during the Bruins’ power play.
– Ryan McLeod had a strong solo rush but was stopped by Swayman.
– A goal by the Sabres was disallowed due to interference with Swayman.
– Swayman made a fantastic glove save on Dahlin midway through the power play.
– The Sabres had a power play with 5:15 left in the first, following a penalty on Nikita Zadorov.
– The Bruins received a power play less than two minutes after their goal.
– Morgan Geekie scored the opening goal for the Bruins at 10:52 into the first period, making it 1-0.
– The Sabres had the first shot on goal, which Swayman easily caught. The atmosphere at KeyBank Center is electric.
– It’s playoff hockey time in Buffalo!
Pregame
– The Bruins have a young third line pairing with James Hagens and Fraser Minten.
– Warmups are complete, and pregame festivities begin at 7:29, with faceoff at 7:42.
– Starting goalies are Jeremy Swayman for Boston and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen for Buffalo.
– The KeyBank Center is nearly full, with fans eagerly awaiting the game.
– A baby was shown on the video board, symbolizing a new generation of Sabres fans.
– The band Uncovered Buffalo is entertaining the crowd with pregame music.
– Snow has fallen in much of Western New York on game day.
– Parking lots are bustling, with prices rising as game time approaches.
– A sign welcoming fans reads, “Welcome to Lindy Ruffalo.” The city is buzzing with excitement.
– The official time for the opening faceoff is set for 7:42 p.m. ET.
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