Sabres' top goaltender leaves game vs. Penguins due to injury

Tough news came out of Buffalo on Wednesday, as No. 1 goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has left the Sabres' preseason game against the Pittsburgh Penguins due to a lower-body injury, confirmed by the team. The 26-year-old appears to have reaggravated the ailment, which has limited his participation in camp so far. 

Luukonen allowed one goal on 12 shots before coming out; however, he played the entire first period, perhaps encouraging for Buffalo. Likely with the ongoing injury in mind, the Sabres picked up Alexander Georgiev earlier this month on a one-year deal, to go with Alex Lyon, who was signed to a two-year contract after establishing himself as a legit NHLer with the Red Wings. 

What will the Sabres do if Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen misses time?

Even with top prospect Devon Levi having been sent back to AHL Rochester, the Sabres seem to have things covered between the pipes if Luukkonen is set to miss time. However, a goaltender tandem of Lyon/Georgiev is a bit concerning for a team trying to, finally, take a leap forward in 2025-26. Potentially, Levi could be back on the big club sometime this fall, sooner than later. 

Luukkonen’s status in the coming days will be worth monitoring as Buffalo finalizes their roster and tries to start October on the right foot.