Canadiens Lead Sabres 3-2 After Game 5 Loss

The Buffalo Sabres face elimination, trailing the Montreal Canadiens 3-2 in their second-round playoff series following a 6-3 loss in Game 5. Buffalo coach Lindy Ruff canceled Friday's team practice and contemplated canceling Saturday morning's skate in Montreal.

Montreal hosts Game 6 on Saturday night. The Canadiens hold a 1-1 record in series-clinching games this postseason, having lost Game 6 of their first-round series against Tampa Bay before winning Game 7.

Buffalo has scored nine goals in its last four games and conceded 19 goals over the same span. Tage Thompson, Buffalo's regular-season leading scorer, recorded two goals and two assists in the series. Teammate Alex Tuch has been held without a point through five games.

Goaltending issues emerged for Buffalo in Game 5. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen was relieved after allowing five goals on 23 shots through two periods. Alex Lyon entered in relief, allowing one goal on three shots in his first appearance since Game 3's 6-2 loss.

Buffalo holds a 4-1 road record this postseason, including a 4-1 series-clinching victory against Boston. The winner of this series advances to face Carolina, which swept both its previous playoff opponents.