Amerks Edge Crunch in Shootout to Secure Third Straight Home Victory

The Rochester Americans (28-25-5-4) closed out the month of March on a high note Sunday afternoon, defeating the Syracuse Crunch 3-2 in a dramatic shootout at The Blue Cross Arena. The victory marks the first time during the 2025-26 campaign that Rochester has strung together three consecutive wins on home ice.

Rookies and Vets Step Up in Regulation

The Amerks’ penalty kill was tested early, successfully fending off three Syracuse power plays before finding the back of the net themselves. Shortly after the third kill, Matteo Costantini opened the scoring with a backhand shot, marking his second goal of the weekend and fourth of the season.

After Syracuse leveled the game in the second period, Trevor Kuntar restored the Rochester lead just 43 seconds into the final frame. Kuntar redirected a shot from the point for his 17th goal of the year, reaching the 30-point plateau for the first time in his professional career.

Helenius and Jones Fuel the Offense

While the game eventually required a shootout, the heavy lifting in regulation was done by the team’s scoring leaders:

• Konsta Helenius: The 19-year-old phenom recorded two assists before scoring the decisive goal in the shootout. He now sits at 53 points on the season, ranking second among all AHL teenagers.
• Zac Jones: With two assists of his own, Jones now has 56 points on the year. He is currently just four points shy of the franchise record for points by a defenseman in the 21st century.

Devon Levi Reaches 20-Win Milestone

In the crease, Devon Levi turned aside 27 shots through regulation and overtime before stopping both Syracuse attempts in the shootout. The win was Levi’s 20th of the season, marking the second year in a row he has reached that benchmark. Levi continues to lead the AHL in both games played (44) and total minutes logged this season.

Game Totals & Special Teams

Up Next

The Amerks kick off the final month of the regular season on Wednesday, April 1, as they host the Charlotte Checkers. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 PM at The Blue Cross Arena.