three things we learned from Buffalo’s 5-4 overtime defeat to Minnesota

For the first time since December 23, the Buffalo Sabres needed overtime, but they ultimately fell 5-4 to the Minnesota Wild, settling for a single point. Buffalo entered the game aiming for its 16th win in the last 18 outings, but came up just short after extra time.

The Sabres spent much of the night chasing the game, falling behind 1-0 in the first period and 3-1 in the second. Early on, tempers flared when a four-minute unsportsmanlike penalty was assessed alongside Marcus Foligno just as Ryan McLeod opened the scoring. Although no punches were thrown initially, the two resumed their confrontation immediately after leaving the penalty box.

Discipline continues to be a growing concern for Buffalo. This marked the fourth time in five games the Sabres recorded double-digit penalty minutes, after doing so just twice in the previous 13 contests. Opponents have taken advantage, with Buffalo surrendering four power-play goals over the last five games. The most costly penalty came late in the third period when Peyton Krebs was whistled for hooking, giving Minnesota a man advantage that carried into overtime — an opportunity the Wild converted into the winning goal.

Sabres allow too many high-danger chances

Throughout much of the season, Buffalo has been effective at limiting high-danger scoring chances. Entering Saturday, they ranked among the top 10 teams in suppressing such opportunities at five-on-five. Against Minnesota, however, that strength faltered.

The Wild generated 17 high-danger chances at even strength, scoring twice. Buffalo created just 10, but made better use of them, netting three goals despite having seven fewer opportunities.

Sabres’ depth steps up offensively

While Buffalo’s recent success has largely been driven by stars like Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, and Josh Doan, this game saw strong contributions from the supporting cast. Aside from Tuch’s goal, the Sabres received scoring from Ryan McLeod, Jack Quinn, and Peyton Krebs.

McLeod opened Buffalo’s account by crashing the net, with the puck deflecting off a Minnesota defenseman’s skate past Filip Gustavsson. Later, after trailing 3-1 in the second period, goals from Krebs and Quinn helped erase the deficit and pull the Sabres back level.