Elias Pettersson Leads Vancouver Canucks to Victory Against Buffalo Sabres, Ascending to Western Conference's Apex

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

Elias Pettersson led the Vancouver Canucks to a 3-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres with his outstanding performance of scoring twice and assisting once, securing their leading position in the Western Conference. Conor Garland contributed with a goal, whereas Quinn Hughes and J.T. Miller each provided two assists for the Canucks.

In his role as Vancouver's primary goaltender, following Thatcher Demko's injury, Casey DeSmith celebrated his first victory by saving 16 shots. On the other side, Rasmus Dahlin was responsible for both goals for the Sabres, who now trail the Detroit Red Wings by five points for a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

Goalie Devon Levi was back in net for Buffalo for the first time since January, making an impressive 31 saves on 33 shots. Even with the Sabres' robust late-game efforts, Pettersson clinched the Canucks' victory with a goal into an empty net, following a pass from Miller.

Dahlin's second goal came during a 4-on-4 situation in the middle of the third period, reducing the Sabres' deficit to one. Earlier, the Canucks had extended their lead to 2-0 with a power-play goal by Pettersson in the second period.

The game's opening score was marked by Garland early in the first period, initially thought to be a goalie interference but confirmed upon review, thus giving Vancouver an early lead.

UP NEXT: The Sabres are set to play against Edmonton on Thursday, while the Canucks are looking forward to hosting Montreal on Tuesday, as they continue through their current home and away series.

Vancouver Canucks vs Buffalo Sabres Game Stats

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