Jeff Skinner’s overtime heroics propelled the Buffalo Sabres to a thrilling 3-2 comeback win against the Columbus Blue Jackets at KeyBank Center on Saturday. Skinner’s decisive goal at 1:20 of the extra frame sealed a much-needed victory for the Sabres, who had trailed 1-0 and 2-1 during the game.
Casey Mittelstadt and Jack Quinn also scored for Buffalo (15-18-4), and goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen contributed with 18 saves. The Sabres, bouncing back from two consecutive losses, showcased resilience in overturning deficits twice in the game.
Damon Severson and Adam Fantilli found the net for Columbus (12-18-8), which has lost four of its past five games. Despite an impressive 39-save performance by Daniil Tarasov, the Blue Jackets couldn’t hold off Buffalo’s late surge.
Skinner, reflecting on the win, emphasized the team’s need to find an extra gear and create opportunities. Mittelstadt’s game-tying goal at 11:52 of the third period was crucial in setting the stage for the overtime winner.
Columbus had a promising start, with Severson scoring late in the first period. Buffalo responded quickly, with Quinn scoring early in the second period. However, Fantilli’s goal restored the Blue Jackets’ lead, only for Mittelstadt to tie the game again in the third.
Buffalo dominated the shots after the first period, reflecting their persistent effort to turn the game around. Columbus coach Pascal Vincent acknowledged the team’s fatigue but praised their effort to secure a point under challenging circumstances.
Buffalo’s Seth Appert, filling in for an ill Don Granato, commended the team for their perseverance and ability to stay focused. This victory sends the Sabres into their next game with renewed confidence, while Columbus looks to regroup and return to winning ways.
