Sabres’ Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen leaves game against Leafs with lower-body injury

An untimely issue for one of the hottest teams in the league.

During a game between the Buffalo Sabres and the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night, Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen exited the game prematurely due to a lower-body injury.

The injury came during a hectic first period between the Atlantic Division rivals. The Finnish backstop left the ice in the middle of a media timeout, with Colten Ellis coming in the game in relief.

It has yet to be reported exactly what is ailing Luukkonen, but he appeared to be in a bit of discomfort after Auston Matthews’ goal a couple of minutes before he left the contest.

The 26-year-old left at the 12:14 mark of the game, having given up two goals on just five shots. It was part of an entertaining first period where the Sabres carried a 3-2 lead over the Leafs into the intermission.

Luukkonen has been a big part of the Sabres’ strong play this season. He had picked up wins in four of his past six starts, earning points in five of his seven appearances this month, including a 37-save performance against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Jan. 6.

Heading into Tuesday, Luukkonen had a record of 11-7-2 with a 2.66 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage.

The Sabres (29-17-5) have been one of the pleasant surprises this season. Despite years of futility and front office woes, the team is right in the thick of the playoff race heading toward the Olympic break. Buffalo is currently third in the Atlantic Division, seven points back of the first-place Tampa Bay Lightning.