Sabres tie series 2-2 after Benson's birthday goal in Montreal

The Sabres tied the series 2-2 after winning Game 4 in Montreal. This is the first time the series has been tied.
By Newsroom | Sports, Hockey |

BUFFALO FORCES DECIDING GAMES AS SERIES RETURNS TO KEY BANK ARENA

Zach Benson's third-period power-play strike on his 21st birthday proved decisive as the Buffalo Sabres bested the Montreal Canadiens 3-2 in Game 4, tying the Eastern Conference semifinal series at two games apiece. The victory, secured on Tuesday night at Montreal's Bell Centre, forces a pivotal Game 5 scheduled for Thursday in Buffalo, with Game 6 set to return to Montreal on Saturday.

The Sabres' offense opened the scoring via Mattias Samuelsson early in the first period. An apparent second goal from Jack Quinn, initially confirmed by video review, was disallowed after Montreal successfully challenged for goaltender interference by Konsta Helenius. Montreal responded with goals from Alex Newhook and Cole Caufield, the latter coming on a power play. Tage Thompson netted the equalizer for Buffalo midway through the second period on a power play, before Benson's decisive goal late in the third.

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Montreal's power play struggled throughout the contest, converting just once on seven opportunities. Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 28 saves in his first start since the opening round, turning aside key chances from Montreal's Cole Caufield in the second period.

The series now shifts back to Buffalo for Game 5. The Sabres have made lineup adjustments, including the playoff debut of rookie Konsta Helenius and the return of defenseman Luke Schenn. This tactical reshuffling, along with Benson's elevated role on the top power-play unit, appears to have paid dividends for the Buffalo squad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did the Sabres win Game 4 against the Canadiens on Tuesday?
Zach Benson scored the winning goal on his 21st birthday in the third period on a power play. The Sabres won 3-2, tying the series 2-2.
Q: When is Game 5 of the Sabres-Canadiens series?
Game 5 will be played on Thursday in Buffalo. The series is now tied at two games each.
Q: What happened with Montreal's power play in Game 4?
Montreal's power play was not effective, scoring only one goal out of seven chances. The Sabres' goalie made 28 saves.
Q: What lineup changes did the Sabres make for Game 4?
The Sabres made lineup changes, including rookie Konsta Helenius playing for the first time and defenseman Luke Schenn returning. These changes helped them win.