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Sabres' Defense Falters as Panthers Pounce in KeyBank Center Clash

The Buffalo Sabres faced off against the Florida Panthers at KeyBank Center, resulting in a 4-3 loss for the home team. This outcome brought the Sabres' record to 24-16-4, while the Panthers improved to 24-18-3. The game was marked by intense competition and strategic plays from both sides.


Jan 12, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Florida Panthers left wing Sandis Villains (95) looks to make a pass during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

First Period


The opening period saw both teams testing each other's defenses with aggressive plays. The Sabres managed to score first, with Alex Tuch finding the back of the net, assisted by Rasmus Dahlin. However, the Panthers quickly responded with two goals of their own, setting a competitive tone early on.


Second Period


In the second period, both teams tightened their defenses significantly. Despite numerous attempts from both sides, only one goal was scored by Buffalo's Zach Benson. His performance stood out as he capitalized on a rare defensive lapse by Florida to even up the score temporarily.


Jan 12, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Florida Panthers defenseman Jeff Petry (2) looks to block a shot by Buffalo Sabres right wing Jack Quinn (22) during the second period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

Third Period


The final period became crucial for determining which team would take control of this matchup. The Panthers surged ahead with two more goals while maintaining pressure on Buffalo's defense throughout. Although Tage Thompson managed to add another goal for Buffalo late in this segment, it wasn't enough to overcome Florida's lead.


Anton Lundell emerged as a key player for Florida during this game; his contributions were pivotal in securing victory over Buffalo at KeyBank Center—a notable highlight among other significant moments such as Carter Verhaeghe’s consistent offensive presence that kept pushing back against any advances made by Blue and Gold players like Owen Power or Peyton Krebs who tried hard but couldn't turn things around completely despite their efforts being visible across different parts throughout these periods played here tonight!


Jan 12, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Buffalo Sabres goaltender Colten Ellis (92) looks to make a save during the first period against the Florida Panthers at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

Looking forward: Fans can catch up next when our beloved Swords face off against Philadelphia Flyers right here again soon—mark your calendars now because January 14th promises yet another exciting encounter scheduled promptly starting around approximately half-past seven PM Eastern Time (ET) broadcasting live via TNT TV network alongside HBO Max streaming service options available too! Don't miss out—share this article today!

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