Buffalo Sabres goaltender Alex Lyon was pulled from the game on May 16, 2026, after allowing three goals on three shots against the New York Rangers. The Rangers scored on their first three shots of the game, leading to Lyon's early exit.
Lyon, who had been solid in previous starts, struggled from the outset. The Rangers' quick strikes came within the first few minutes, forcing Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff to make a goaltending change.
Backup goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen entered the game in relief. The Sabres were unable to recover from the early deficit, ultimately losing the game. The loss impacted Buffalo's playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference.
