Luukkonen Leads Sabres' Playoff Push

0:00On April 8th, as the Buffalo Sabre's gear for the playoffs, Coach Lindy Ruff has a straightforward call on the Game 1 starter in Net, Yucca Peca. Luke Conan. He's pulled ahead of the pack with a stellar 20 wins, 9 losses, and 3 ties, posting a point 9-1-1 save percentage and 2.5. Five goals against average. That's elite numbers, especially when he consider he's delivering quality starts without logging every minute. Since the lead came back from the Olympic break, Luke Conan's been on fire. In 12 starts, he's held a bonus to two goals or fewer 9 times, ranking 6th and save percentage at 0.924 fourth in goals. Against that, 2.25, and tied for 5th with 9 wins. Meanwhile, the Sabres are battling in a tight 3-way race for the Atlantic Division, and he's set to start a few more to keep them momentum rolling, straight into postseason. Devin Lyne has had a breakout year 2, sitting at 20 wins, 10 losses, and 4 ties.

1:00Just one victory shy of his career high, including 10. Straight road wins that fueled this push. But lately, he's hit a snag with zero wins, two losses, and one tie over his last three outings, giving up 13 goals. He's still got that fire and grit, but the recent dip has created some clear separation. What stands out is Luke Conan's cool, collected vibe in the crease-pure calm confidence that top goal he's bring, unlike Lyne's high energy style. Coming off-trade rumors earlier this season, he's matched his breakout year from 2023-2024, and then some, which could, steady a young, hyped up Sabres squad, prone to early jitters in the playoffs. Rough plans to ride the hot hand, but won't hesitate to switch if it feels right, giving Buffalo the luxury of two dependable netminders. That goal-tending edge will be massive on their first playoff running years, setting the tone for whatever comes next. Stay locked in with NHL News today, AI-powered updates.