Red Wings' John Gibson robs Rasmus Dahlin with unreal kick save in Sabres clash

Detroit's veteran goaltender made a highlight-reel stop to preserve a crucial lead against Buffalo.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:49am

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Detroit Red Wings goaltender John Gibson made an incredible kick save to deny Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin from scoring a crucial goal in a late-season matchup between the two teams. The Red Wings had jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, but the Sabres were mounting a comeback when Dahlin had a prime scoring chance that Gibson emphatically turned away.

Why it matters

The Red Wings are fighting to end a nine-year playoff drought and need every point they can get down the stretch. Gibson's highlight-reel save helped preserve Detroit's lead and kept them in position to potentially earn two crucial points against one of the NHL's top teams.

The details

With the Red Wings leading 3-0 in the first period, the Sabres pressured Detroit's defense and Rasmus Dahlin had a golden opportunity to cut the deficit. However, veteran goaltender John Gibson made an incredible kick save to deny Dahlin's shot and keep the three-goal lead intact. The Red Wings were unable to extend their lead in the second period, but Gibson continued to make key stops to protect the 3-1 advantage heading into the third.

  • The Red Wings jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first period.
  • Tage Thompson scored for the Sabres in the second period to make it a 3-1 game.
  • The game was played on Friday, March 28, 2026.

The players

John Gibson

The veteran goaltender for the Detroit Red Wings who made the highlight-reel save to deny Rasmus Dahlin.

Rasmus Dahlin

The captain of the Buffalo Sabres who was robbed of a goal by John Gibson's kick save.

Tage Thompson

The Sabres forward who scored his 37th goal of the season to cut Detroit's lead to 3-1 in the second period.

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What they’re saying

“That was one of the best saves I've seen all season. John really bailed us out there and kept us in the lead.”

— Dylan Larkin, Red Wings forward

What’s next

The Red Wings will look to hold on to their slim lead in the third period and earn a crucial two points against the Sabres to help their playoff push.

The takeaway

Gibson's highlight-reel save was a game-changing moment that could prove vital for the Red Wings as they fight to end their long playoff drought. The veteran netminder's heroics kept Detroit in front against one of the NHL's top teams, showcasing his ability to make the big plays when his team needs them most.