Sabres hang on for win over Pens

After giving up two goals in the third period, the Sabres arose victorious against the Penguins, 3-2, in their first matchup at KeyBank Center since April. 

Vladimir Sobotka led Buffalo with a power play goal in the dying seconds of the opening period. The score was well anticipated after three penalties were called on Pittsburgh and the Sabres had a two-man advantage.

Jake McCabe was next to score for the Sabres at 6:06 into the second period, assisted by Evan Rodrigues and Sobotka.

Jack Eichel, donning one of three A’s, earned a slick shorthanded goal at 13:44.

Carter Hutton spent the first two periods in net and was perfect, stopping all 14 shots. He was replaced with Scott Wedgewood heading into the third, who allowed two goals on 12 shots. 

It almost seemed like a dream that the Sabres were leaning toward a shutout against the Penguins heading into the third period, but they lost their magic with five minutes remaining in the game. Will O’Neill scored the Penguins’ first goal, followed closely with another goal at 16:21, four seconds off the faceoff.

Pittsburgh’s Juuso Riikola scored the quick goal, assisted by Daniel Sprong and Jake Guentzel. The Penguins pulled their goaltender with less than a minute and a half left in the game, with one close call before Buffalo sealed the 3-2 win.

Rasmus Dahlin stole the crowds’ attention, making his first debut at the KeyBank Center. Although he didn’t score, his hard work and connections with his teammates showed — passing being a big plus compared to past seasons. After the preseason game, Dahlin admitted he was nervous going into the match but said it was a good game and that he enjoyed himself.

Buffalo hopes to continue their preseason winning streak on Friday as they head to Toronto to face rivals, the Maple Leafs, at 7:30 p.m.