Buffalo Sabres Face Setbacks in Preseason Finale
In a disappointing 5-3 defeat to the Pittsburgh Penguins during their final preseason matchup, the Buffalo Sabres faced more than just a loss on the scoreboard. The significant concern arose when rookie goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen exited the game early due to lower-body discomfort, a situation that could jeopardize his participation in the upcoming season opener against the New York Rangers.
Luukkonen’s Injury Concerns
Head coach Lindy Ruff explained that Luukkonen, 26, initially felt confident after making several saves but soon realized something was amiss.
“We didn’t want to take any risks with him,”
Ruff commented, emphasizing the need for caution following Luukkonen’s history with lower-body injuries.
Prior to the preseason, Luukkonen had experienced pain linked to an injury sustained while ramping up for training camp in late August. Buffalo’s general manager, Kevyn Adams, had taken proactive measures by signing veteran goaltender Alexandar Georgiev to a one-year contract, anticipating that Luukkonen might need additional support.
Although previous tests had shown no significant issues, Luukkonen faced discomfort again after stopping 12 out of 12 shots in the opening period against the Penguins. Following the game, Ruff noted that further evaluations would determine whether Luukkonen’s current ailment is related to his earlier injury.
Additional Injury Concerns
Additionally, defenseman Michael Kesselring, forced into a more prominent role due to injuries to teammates Bowen Byram and Owen Power, also left the game in the second period with his own injury concerns. Kesselring has been grappling with discomfort since training camp and is slated for further medical assessments as well.
As the Sabres prepare for the regular season, both Luukkonen and Kesselring’s situations loom large, with their availability in question heading into the anticipated matchup against the Rangers next week.
