The Buffalo Sabres fell 6-3 to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 5, dropping into a 3-2 series deficit that puts them on the brink of elimination. Buffalo held a 3-2 lead after the first period behind goals from Jason Zucker, Josh Doan, and Konsta Helenius, but the Canadiens dominated the middle frame to seize control of the contest.

Goaltending issues resurfaced for the Sabres as Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen couldn't maintain his early performance. Montreal scored three unanswered goals in the second period, with Josh Anderson, Jake Evans, and Nick Suzuki finding the net. Coach Lindy Ruff replaced Luukkonen with Alex Lyon for the third period, though the change couldn't stop the bleeding as Montreal extended its lead.

The loss leaves Buffalo needing a road victory in Game 6 to force a decisive Game 7. The Sabres have been better on the road in these playoffs (4-1) than at home (2-4), giving them some hope. However, they must address defensive breakdowns and inconsistent goaltending while getting more production from top skaters like Alex Tuch, who has zero points in the series.