Buffalo shuffled defense and forward slots, inserting Zach Metsa and Logan Stanley while reshuffling others to test extended opportunities for extra players as the team seeks the best third defensive pair.

Head coach Lindy Ruff said Lyon could miss up to a week, with a chance he won’t be ready for the playoff opener slated for April 18-19, prompting major goaltending considerations for Buffalo.

Lyon sustained the injury during a pre-game skate before a 5-3 win over the Rangers, potentially impacting his availability as Buffalo heads into the playoffs.

Ryan McLeod ended a 16-game goal drought with his 13th goal, and Ruff encouraged him to shoot more, signaling an offensive adjustment.

The goaltending move is described as precautionary to avoid risks with three healthy goalies available for the playoff push.

Buffalo Sabres backup goaltender Colten Ellis is stepping in to back up Luukkonen as Lyon deals with a strained lower-body injury, entering with a 7-4-1 record and his first start since a 31-save effort in a 4-3 OT loss to Tampa Bay earlier in the season.

Ruff emphasized evaluating different lineups and combinations against various opponents to identify the best fit for the playoff run.

Josh Doan passed up a scoring chance to Zach Benson to set up a teammate’s goal, showcasing a selfless, team-first play that drew praise.

The Sabres rely on a goaltending background that includes Ellis stepping in after his time as a Panthers contributor and a stint with the Red Wings, forming a diverse backdrop for this playoff push.

Buffalo remains in the Atlantic Division race, with standings and potential playoff opponents influencing how aggressively they manage goaltending down the stretch.

Luukkonen has been Buffalo’s steadying force, posting a .919 save percentage over his last 15 games as the team goes 11-3-1, fueling the case that he may carry the playoff load.

Lyon, undrafted and a veteran of 149 NHL games across nine seasons, has a career record of 71-48-15 with a .903 save percentage.