Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is setting his sights on elevating his team's status as a genuine Stanley Cup contender, speaking from Munich ahead of a new chapter for the franchise. The Finnish netminder, who has emerged as one of the league's most reliable goaltenders in recent seasons, acknowledges the high expectations that come with the Sabres' recent roster upgrades. His comments suggest a front office and locker room that are no longer content with simply making the playoffs but are hungry to push deeper into the postseason and compete for the championship.

MUNICH – Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is focused fully on the season ahead and the challenges he and the Buffalo Sabres will face in trying to take the next step as Stanley Cup contenders.