---
title: "Sabres turn to Luukkonen vs. Canadiens after Lyon's meltdown"
description: "Buffalo benches Alex Lyon after nine goals in two games, starting Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen to stabilize the crease."
url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/buffalo-sabres-use-their-winning-formula-by-switching-goalie-mp38h8t0
published: 2026-05-16T12:11:42.51692+00:00
updated: 2026-05-16T14:03:16.481087+00:00
author: "Kostadin Stamboliev"
publisher: "Pineido"
site: "Sportopod"
language: en
topics: ["hockey"]
---

# Sabres turn to Luukkonen vs. Canadiens after Lyon's meltdown

> Buffalo benches Alex Lyon after nine goals in two games, starting Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen to stabilize the crease.

The Buffalo Sabres will start Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen in net against the Montreal Canadiens, benching Alex Lyon after he allowed nine goals in his last two starts.

Head coach Don Granato confirmed the move, calling the rotation 'what we are' as the team pushes for playoff positioning.

Lyon's recent struggles—including a 5-2 loss to the New York Islanders and a 4-3 defeat to the Detroit Red Wings—forced the switch.

Luukkonen, who has posted a .912 save percentage this season, brings stability and playoff experience to a Sabres squad that has leaned heavily on its goaltending tandem down the stretch.

The decision underscores Buffalo's commitment to defensive reliability.

With the Canadiens fighting for their own postseason hopes, the Sabres cannot afford another leaky performance.

Luukkonen's size and calm under pressure give the team a better chance to control rebounds and limit high-danger chances.

What's next: Luukkonen faces a Montreal offense that ranks 15th in goals per game.

A strong outing could cement his role as the starter for the remainder of the regular season.

## Why this matters

Goalies win playoff hockey. Buffalo's decision to swap starters reflects a calculated move to stabilize their defense and ride momentum into the postseason. With Lyon faltering, Luukkonen offers a proven track record and the composure needed to handle a desperate Canadiens team. This isn't a panic move—it's a strategic adjustment that could define the Sabres' late-season push.

## Frequently asked

### Why did the Sabres switch goalies for the Canadiens game?

Alex Lyon allowed nine goals in his last two starts, prompting the Sabres to start Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen for better stability and playoff readiness.

### How has Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen performed this season?

Luukkonen holds a .912 save percentage and has been a reliable presence in net, giving Buffalo a stronger chance to control games defensively.

### What did Don Granato say about the goalie rotation?

Granato called the strategy 'what we are,' emphasizing that the tandem approach is central to the Sabres' identity and late-season success.

### What are the playoff implications for the Sabres?

Every game matters for Buffalo's postseason hopes. A win against Montreal keeps momentum alive, while a loss could derail their push.

## Sources & Citations

- [Buffalo Sabres Use Their Winning Formula By Switching Goalies Vs. Canadiens: 'It's What We Are'](https://thehockeynews.com/news/latest-news/buffalo-sabres-use-their-winning-formula-by-switching-goalies-vs-canadiens-its-what-we-are) — The Hockey News (2026-05-12)

---

Cite: Sabres turn to Luukkonen vs. Canadiens after Lyon's meltdown. Sportopod, 2026-05-16. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/buffalo-sabres-use-their-winning-formula-by-switching-goalie-mp38h8t0