Sabres lose 5-2 to Utah Hockey Club, season worsens

The Buffalo Sabres had a rough night on Thursday, losing 5-2 to the Utah Hockey Club. The game featured a notable embarrassing moment when the Sabres scored an own goal that sealed their defeat. The Sabres, who are at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, were attempting to tie the game late in the third period. With just over a minute left, coach Lindy Ruff took out goaltender James Reimer for an extra skater. However, a pass from forward Tage Thompson was misdirected, hitting the boards and ending up in the Sabres' empty net. This own goal put Utah ahead 4-2. Before the own goal, Sabres' Ryan McLeod scored a short-handed goal to tie the game at 2-2. However, Utah's Dylan Guenther quickly responded, scoring to regain the lead. With the win, Utah is now close to the Wild Card spot in the Western Conference playoffs. The Sabres are now focused on improving their draft position as their playoff hopes fade. They will next play against the Minnesota Wild on Saturday. Meanwhile, Utah will face the Detroit Red Wings on Monday.