Buffalo Sabres goaltender shined under pressure in win over Flyers
When it comes to Devon Levi’s arrival in the NHL, no one is facing more pressure than Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.
Given his struggles this season, Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen would be the odd-man out if he continues to put up pedestrian performances and Devon Levi continues to play well throughout his trial with the team. On Friday, Levi dominated, achieving First Star honors as he stopped 31 of 33 shots on goal for a 0.939 save percentage.
The following night, Levi served in a backup role for the first time in his career, which gave him an opportunity to watch the game from the bench while Luukkonen had a chance for redemption. Luukkonen, who allowed four or more goals in his last three starts, put up a strong performance, finishing 39 for 42 with a 0.929 save percentage.
With Levi starting on Friday and Luukkonen starting on Saturday, it could have foreshadowed what the Sabres could look like in the goaltending department as soon as next season. This is, of course, assuming general manager Kevyn Adams doesn’t bring in anyone else, and that Levi and Luukkonen build on their most recent performances.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen remarkable in Buffalo Sabres win over Flyers
In the first period, the Flyers outplayed the Sabres. They outmuscled the Blue and Gold, and attained several good looks, accumulating 14 shots on goal. The Flyers onslaught didn’t stop there, as they landed 17 in the second frame.
But Luukkonen was ready, as though realizing he had to step up his game or else he could find himself on his way out. Okay, maybe not immediately on his way out, but another poor performance in the net wouldn’t have done him any favors.
His save of the game came during a Flyers power play when the Sabres were up to their usual shenanigans, which involved letting a big lead slip. Luukkonen stopped a would-be goal at the absolute last possible microsecond, pinning the puck against the post with his skate, where it remained just in front of the red line to deny the Flyers a chance to pull the game to within one goal.
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Overall, it was a much-needed performance from Luukkonen, and one he can build from if he plans on competing for a spot next season. Is he up for the challenge? We will see how he fares in his final two to three starts on the season.
Source: Observations: As Devon Levi looks on, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stands tall for Sabres in win over Flyers by Mike Harrington, BuffaloNews.com