• Alex Nedeljkovic becomes the first goalie in NHL history to score a goal and an assist in a single game.
• The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Buffalo Sabres 5-2, snapping a three-game losing streak.
• Nedeljkovic made 40 saves and scored via an empty-net shot from nearly 180 feet.
• This achievement places him among elite company as the second Penguins goalie to score in the NHL.
• The Sabres have now lost 18 of their last 24 games, placing them in a difficult position.

In a historic night for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Alex Nedeljkovic became the first goalie in NHL history to record both a goal and an assist in a game, leading the Penguins to a convincing 5-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres in Buffalo on Friday night. The performance not only showcased Nedeljkovic’s talent but also highlighted his long-standing passion for puck handling, a skill he attributes to the influence of goalies like Marty Turco and Martin Brodeur.

Nedeljkovic's historic goal came with just 2:42 left in the game after the Sabres pulled their goalie, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, for an extra attacker. From behind his own net, Nedeljkovic launched the puck down the ice into the empty net. He also assisted Cody Glass’s goal earlier in the second period, which established a 3-1 lead for the Penguins. His performance was pivotal in ending the Penguins' three-game losing streak and pulled them closer in the playoff race.

The Sabres, struggling this season, have faced significant challenges with this loss marking their 18th in just 24 games. Owen Power and Zach Benson provided the scoring for Buffalo, but defensively, their penalty kill faced difficulties, going 1 for 4 against the Penguins' power play. This inconsistency continues to hinder their performance as they look to turn their season around.

Nedeljkovic's accomplishment means he is now among the elite group of goalies to score in the NHL, marking the 19th goal ever scored by a goalie. Notably, he has also become the first goalie to score in all three major leagues: the ECHL, AHL, and NHL. Following the game, Penguins coach Mike Sullivan remarked on the thrilling nature of the event, with teammates jokingly suggesting all that was missing for Nedeljkovic was a fight to complete the "Gordie Howe hat trick."

As the Penguins look to build momentum, they prepare for their next matchup against Washington, while the Sabres will face the Seattle Kraken on the road. Both teams continue to navigate this challenging season and seek better performances in their upcoming games. For more details, visit the full articles from AP News.