Redemption goal for David Pastrnak saves Bruins' season, delays Sabres celebration originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
In the moment, the Boston Bruins' superstar likely didn't have time to think about Game 1, when if he had just put away a breakaway chance, the Buffalo Sabres may never have staged their dramatic rally, and this series may have been so different.
But there Pastrnak was Tuesday night back in Buffalo, overtime of Game 5, the Bruins on the brink of elimination.
And this time, he crossed left, then got back to his forehand to slide the puck past Sabres goalie Alex Lyon.
Buffalo had been seeking to close out its first playoff series win since 2007, and will still be seeking that at least until later this week.
For now, the Bruins have ensured another game of hockey this season.
The Sabres lead the series 3-2, but Boston has life, provided by its top goal scorer:
Pastrnak, 2-1 OTW #LetsGoBuffalo#NHLBruinspic.twitter.com/qONRHAKROG
— Buffalo Hockey Moments (@SabresPlays) April 29, 2026
Pastrnak's goal was only possible because of the Bruins' other leader, Jeremy Swayman.
The Sabres had just had multiple point-blank chances to score moments earlier in OT, but Swayman stood firm.
Eventually, that started the transition opportunity that had Pastrnak in on goal, and he didn't miss this time.
It was a long night, with the Sabres getting an early power play goal from Rasmus Dahlin and the Bruins getting the equalizer midway through the second period from Elias Lindholm.
Swayman and Lyon stood firm from there, denying legitimate chances to win the game throughout the third period and into overtime.
Eventually, someone had to send everyone home. It was either going to be all the Bruins heading into their offseason, or it was going to be more playoff hockey in this Eastern Conference opening round series.
Pastrnak found a way to will the Bruins to the latter.
This series is going back to Boston. The Sabres still have to be considered the favorites, with the advantage of three games to two.
But if Pastrnak hadn't converted this breakaway, the Bruins' season may have ended on Tuesday night.
As it stands, they're still alive. Pastrnak gave them a few more heartbeats.
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