Sabres Goaltender Alex Lyon Exited Preseason Game
The Buffalo netminder left the ice during the first period of a matchup against the Detroit Red Wings.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hockey
Buffalo Sabres goaltender Alex Lyon left a preseason game against the Detroit Red Wings on September 24, 2026. Lyon departed the ice after a sequence where he slid face-first to cover the puck.
Why it matters
The exit of a starting-caliber goaltender during the preseason creates immediate uncertainty regarding the team rotation for the upcoming season. Lyon's absence forced an early substitute, impacting the defensive stability for the remainder of the contest.
Lyon recorded a 2.77 goals against average and a .907 save percentage over 36 appearances last season. He currently holds a career record of 20-10-4 with the franchise.
The players
Alex Lyon
Alex Lyon is a goaltender for the Buffalo Sabres who recorded a 20-10-4 record during the previous season.
Colten Elliss
Colten Elliss is a professional goaltender who replaced Alex Lyon in the net during the preseason matchup.
Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres are a professional ice hockey team based in Buffalo that competes in the National Hockey League.
Detroit Red Wings
The Detroit Red Wings are a professional ice hockey franchise that served as the opponent in the preseason game.
The details
Lyon exited the game with two minutes remaining in the first period after stretching his left arm to secure the puck during a play. He rose slowly and signaled to the bench before skating off the ice on his own, with Colten Elliss taking his place in the net.
Timeline
September 24, 2026: Alex Lyon exited the preseason game against the Detroit Red Wings.
Season Trajectory
An injury to a primary goaltender during the preseason shifts the focus of the organization toward its depth chart and backup options. This development impacts the competitive balance of the roster as the team looks to maintain its 20-10-4 winning momentum into the regular season.
With Lyon exiting the game, the team must evaluate his availability for the upcoming regular season opener. Fantasy managers and fans should monitor his status to see if his 2.77 goals against average remains a baseline for the team's defensive performance.
The takeaway
Sudden injuries during preseason games highlight the importance of depth in a professional goaltending rotation. Fans should track the team's official injury reports to understand how long Lyon may be sidelined.
Further reading
For more on the team roster and updates, visit the Buffalo Hockey section.
