Lindy Ruff had planned to utilize an emergency backup goalie opposite James Reimer for Wednesday’s practice at KeyBank Center, with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen scheduled to join the team along with fellow 4 Nations Face-Off participants Rasmus Dahlin and Henri Jokiharju later this week.

Luukkonen made 26 saves in Saturday's 8-2 win over the Rangers.

Did you know the Sabres are tied for fifth in the NHL in goals at 5 on 5 with 121 − the same number as Edmonton and Tampa Bay? And there's no Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl or Nikita Kucherov on the Buffalo roster.

Coach Lindy Ruff said he wasn't concerned about Luukkonen's inactivity, given that he kept skating and has plenty of time to ramp up before Saturday's game here against the New York Rangers.

With the 4 Nations Face-off officially underway, the Buffalo Sabres need to finish the season off strong after the break is over.

Thompson’s first goal with 4:28 left in the first sparked Buffalo’s run of three goals in a span of 2:48 for a 5-0 lead. The Rangers allowed Thompson to drive from the right corner to the front of the net and backhand a shot in through Shesterkin’s legs.