Buffalo – Thatcher Demko’s stellar goaltending, culminating in 26 saves, led the Vancouver Canucks to a narrow 1-0 victory over the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center on Saturday. This win marked the Canucks’ fifth consecutive victory and Demko’s fourth shutout of the season, solidifying his reputation as one of the NHL’s top goalies.
Demko’s performance was highlighted by a crucial save in the final seconds of the third period, ensuring the Canucks maintained their slender lead. His outstanding form also earned him a place in the 2024 NHL All-Star Game via the Fan Vote.
Canucks coach Rick Tocchet praised Demko’s imposing presence in the net, noting his calm and solid play throughout the game. Sam Lafferty scored the game’s only goal, his impactful play contributing to the Canucks’ impressive run of six wins in their last seven games.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 22 saves for the Sabres, who were coming off a strong run of three wins in their previous four games. Despite the loss, Buffalo coach Don Granato recognized the team’s effort, highlighting their competitive play against a strong Canucks side.
The game saw Demko make crucial stops, including a first-period save on Jordan Greenway and a second-period glove save on Casey Mittelstadt during a power play. His performance underlined the Canucks’ defensive strength, crucial in tight games like this.
With this win, the Canucks have demonstrated their ability to secure victories through various styles of play, an important trait as the season progresses. The Sabres, despite the loss, showcased their resilience and competitive spirit, indicating their potential for a strong performance in upcoming games.
