Noah Ostlund scores go-ahead goal in third period in Sabres’ 5-3 win over Panthers

Buffalo Sabres forward Noah Ostlund scored the decisive goal in the third period, propelling the team to a 5-3 victory over the Florida Panthers on Monday. The win came despite both teams suffering significant injury setbacks. Buffalo captain Rasmus Dahlin netted his second goal of the season, but had to withdraw early in the second period due to an upper-body injury.

Florida's starter Jacob Markstrom was pulled after allowing two goals on 11 shots in the first period and did not return; he was replaced by Akira Schmid, who conceded three goals on 21 shots for the loss. Buffalo managed to stay ahead throughout the game, with goals from Tage Thompson, Josh Doan and Ryan McLeod. Backup goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made a notable contribution by allowing just one goal on 14 shots during his time in net.

Buffalo started the season with two consecutive wins following a 4-1 home loss to Minnesota on Saturday. The Panthers, meanwhile, dropped two straight games following their opening loss. With the score tied at 3, Ostlund sealed the win by tapping in Zach Benson’s pass through the crease. The Sabres converted two of their five power-play chances, while the Panthers capitalized on two of their four power-play opportunities.

Florida will travel to Columbus for a game on Tuesday night, while the Sabres head to Montreal for a five-game homestand.