Strong Start Changes Series Momentum
Alex Lyon entered the playoff series in relief during Game 2, stopping all seven shots he faced despite the Sabres trailing 4-0. Coach Lindy Ruff started him in Game 3, and Lyon delivered consecutive wins in Boston. He stopped 24 of 25 shots in a 3-1 victory in Game 3, then posted a 23 of 24 performance in a dominant 6-1 win in Game 4. According to MoneyPuck, Lyon ranks fifth in the league in goals saved above expected in the playoffs.
Competitive Edge Energizes Team
Lyon brings an intense, vocal presence to the crease that teammates credit with shifting the series. He chirps opponents constantly and was caught on camera telling Bruins fourth-liner Tanner Jeannot to shut up during Game 2. Defenseman Mattias Samuelsson described Lyon as 'a little bit of a psycho' in the best way, noting his constant chatter and competitiveness fuels the entire group. Forward Josh Doan highlighted how Lyon's willingness to battle and never back down gives the team confidence.
Continued Impact Through Game 5
Lyon has appeared in four of the first five games. After winning the first two starts, he took an overtime loss in Game 5, stopping 27 of 29 shots. Across all four appearances in the series, he has allowed just four goals on 85 shots for a .953 save percentage. The Sabres set him to start Game 6 in Boston.
Advantage Reversed Against Boston
The Bruins entered the series with a perceived goaltending advantage, as Jeremy Swayman was one of the NHL's best goalies during the regular season. However, Lyon's performance has swung the advantage. The Sabres chased Swayman from the series in Game 4 by scoring six goals, and Swayman now ranks 16th out of 20 goalies in goals saved above expected in the postseason, compared to Lyon's fifth-place ranking. 
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