Bruins Rally in 3rd, Upend Sabres in OT for Pivotal Win

Boston overcomes 3-2 deficit late in regulation to defeat Atlantic Division-leading Buffalo

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:35am

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The visiting Boston Bruins rallied from a 3-2 deficit in the third period, tying the game late in regulation before winning in overtime against the Buffalo Sabres. David Pastrnak opened the scoring and assisted on Pavel Zacha's game-winning goal in overtime to help the Bruins improve their playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference.

Why it matters

This was a crucial win for the Bruins as they look to solidify their playoff position, while the Sabres missed an opportunity to extend their lead atop the Atlantic Division. The game featured a back-and-forth battle between two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.

The details

Boston trailed 3-2 late in the third period before Casey Mittelstadt scored the equalizer with six minutes remaining. In overtime, Pastrnak set up Zacha for the game-winning goal just 38 seconds into the extra period. The Bruins overcame an early 3-2 deficit, with Pastrnak and Zacha playing key roles in the comeback victory.

  • Boston opened the scoring with 8:53 remaining in the first period.
  • Buffalo equalized with 4:42 left before the initial intermission.
  • Pastrnak gave Boston the lead back near the midway point of the second period.
  • Zach Benson tied the game 5:21 into the third period.
  • Zacha scored the game-winning goal 38 seconds into overtime.

The players

David Pastrnak

Boston Bruins forward who opened the scoring and assisted on the game-winning goal in overtime.

Pavel Zacha

Boston Bruins forward who scored the game-winning goal in overtime.

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

Buffalo Sabres goaltender who made 27 saves in the game.

Tage Thompson

Buffalo Sabres forward who had an assist on one of the Sabres' goals.

Jason Zucker

Buffalo Sabres forward who scored two goals in the game.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.