Tue Jan 13 06:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Panthers Edge Sabres in Close Contest, Snapping Buffalo’s Impressive Run

The Story:

The Florida Panthers defeated the Buffalo Sabres 4-3 on Monday night in Buffalo, halting the Sabres’ near-unstoppable streak. Anton Lundell’s third-period goal proved to be the game-winner, while A.J. Greer’s two goals, including a crucial empty-netter, provided the necessary cushion. The Panthers secured their second consecutive victory after a rocky start to their six-game road trip.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with the Sabres consistently answering Florida’s goals until Lundell’s go-ahead marker. Despite a late goal from Alex Tuch, the Sabres couldn’t complete the comeback. The Panthers, however, were without key players, including Brad Marchand, due to injury.

Key Points:

  • The Florida Panthers defeated the Buffalo Sabres 4-3 on Monday, January 12, 2026.
  • Anton Lundell scored the game-winning goal in the third period.
  • A.J. Greer scored two goals for the Panthers, including the empty-netter.
  • The Sabres’ loss was only their second in the last 15 games.
  • Panthers forward Brad Marchand missed his third straight game due to an undisclosed injury.
  • The Sabres are hosting the 2026 NHL Draft.

Critical Analysis:

The Panthers’ victory is crucial considering their initial losses on this road trip. The absence of key players like Marchand makes the win even more significant. Meanwhile, for the Sabres, this loss, while ending a strong run, serves as a reminder of the competitiveness of the league and the importance of maintaining consistency, especially as they prepare to host the 2026 NHL Draft.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Panthers demonstrated resilience by securing a win despite being shorthanded.
  • The Sabres’ impressive run came to an end, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the NHL.
  • Goaltending from both Bobrovsky and Ellis was a significant factor in the close score.
  • Special teams played a role, with Reinhart’s power-play goal opening the scoring.
  • Greer’s performance indicates valuable depth for the Panthers.

Impact Analysis:

For the Panthers, this win provides momentum as they continue their road trip against Carolina and Washington. Securing points on the road is crucial for playoff positioning. For the Sabres, while the loss is a setback, they need to quickly regroup and focus on their upcoming homestand against Philadelphia, maintaining a positive trajectory for the team, especially leading up to hosting the 2026 NHL Draft. The development of young players like Zach Benson and Josh Doan is a positive sign for the Sabres’ future, but consistency remains key.

Read More

Related News: