Sabres Surge Past Lightning, Playoff Races Tighten Across NHL

Buffalo extends win streak to three games, while other key matchups see narrow margins

Mar. 3, 2026 at 1:47am

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The Buffalo Sabres continued their impressive run, securing a 6-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday, marking their third consecutive win. Josh Norris led the charge with two goals, supported by a strong offensive performance from Rasmus Dahlin, who contributed a goal and two assists. This win propels the Sabres into a competitive position within the Atlantic Division, surpassing the Montreal Canadiens for second place. Beyond the Sabres' victory, Saturday's NHL action showcased the intensifying competition as teams vie for playoff positioning, with several games concluding with narrow margins.

Why it matters

The Sabres' recent success has allowed them to surge into a playoff position, highlighting the increasing parity in the NHL as teams battle for postseason berths. The league's emphasis on speed, skill, and goaltending consistency is driving more competitive and unpredictable outcomes, making the playoff race in the Atlantic Division and across the league particularly compelling.

The details

Zach Metsa, Alex Tuch, and Tage Thompson also scored for the Sabres, while Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 36 saves. The Sabres' win ended the Lightning's 10-game home winning streak. In other key matchups, the Senators defeated the Maple Leafs 5-2, the Rangers edged the Penguins 3-2 in overtime, and the Flyers topped the Bruins 3-1.

  • The Sabres secured their third consecutive win on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
  • The Sabres' victory ended the Lightning's 10-game home winning streak.

The players

Josh Norris

A forward for the Buffalo Sabres who led the team with two goals in their victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Rasmus Dahlin

A defenseman for the Buffalo Sabres who contributed a goal and two assists in the team's win, continuing his strong play despite personal challenges off the ice.

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

The goaltender for the Buffalo Sabres who made 36 saves in the team's victory over the Lightning.

Drake Batherson

A forward for the Ottawa Senators who scored two goals in the team's 5-2 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Vincent Trocheck

The forward for the New York Rangers who scored the overtime winner in the team's 3-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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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.