‘Nothing we aren’t used to’ | How Sabres’ Lyon shifted momentum in Game 3 and series Buffalo Sabres goaltender Alex Lyon’s clutch performance in Game 3 against the Boston Bruins played a pivotal role in shifting the momentum of the best-of-seven series, helping his team reclaim a 2-1 series lead. Lyon’s 24-save effort, including a critical penalty-shot stop and late defensive stops, anchored the Sabres’ 3-1 victory at TD Garden. The win marked a turning point in the playoff matchup, with Lyon’s resilience and composure under pressure becoming central to the Sabres’ resurgence. Lyon, a nine-year NHL veteran, admitted to feeling pregame nerves but emphasized his ability to channel that energy into focus. “Sometimes in practice I get really nervous. That’s just part of who I am,” he said. “But it’s fun, too. I’ve learned to deal with it and kind of enjoy that part a little bit and not let it deter me at all.” The nerves proved manageable in Game 3, as Lyon’s performance was a stark contrast to his earlier struggles. His first start since April 4, when he was pulled after allowing three goals in six minutes in Washington, came after a lengthy layoff that included a muscle strain during a morning skate and missing the end of the regular season. The Sabres’ victory was built on Lyon’s ability to adapt to the challenges of a long layoff. “I think getting in for a few minutes of the last game was really helpful,” Lyon said. “Before that, it was probably two weeks since I had played, so just to get the feel of the game. And I think that set me up nicely for today.” His early-game dominance was evident in the first period, where he stopped 10 of 11 shots, including a key save on a 6-on-5 one-timer from Pavel Zacha.#boston_bruins #buffalo_sabres #alex_lyon #tanner_jeannot #victor_arvidsson
