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Swayman and Luukkonen set for playoff showdown

April 19, 2026

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The Boston Bruins are set to face the Buffalo Sabres in the playoffs, with a significant focus on the goaltending matchup between Jeremy Swayman of the Bruins and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen of the Sabres. According to Yahoo Sports NHL, the Sabres practiced at KeyBank Center on Saturday in preparation for their first playoff series since 2011.

Sabres goalie Alex Lyon, who suffered a lower-body injury prior to their win over the Rangers on April 8, returned to the ice and is expected to be available for the series. However, it appears that Luukkonen will be the starter for Game 1, as he participated in the morning workout.

Bruins head coach Marco Sturm indicated that his team is larger, stronger, and more physical, intending to target the Sabres' key players with a heavy forecheck. The series is anticipated to hinge on goaltending performance and special teams, with both teams gearing up for a competitive matchup.

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