The Buffalo Sabres have been navigating a challenging stretch as injuries impact their roster ahead of the upcoming NHL season. With several key players sidelined, the organization is making adjustments to ensure they remain competitive.
Injury Updates
Owen Power, one of the Sabres’ standout defensemen, has been forced to miss practice due to a strain and is currently listed as day-to-day. This injury adds to the Sabres' defensive woes, as he joins fellow blueliners Mattias Samuelsson and Bowen Byram on the sidelines. Samuelsson is also dealing with an injury, while Byram sustained an undisclosed issue during a recent exhibition game.
The absence of these players raises concerns about the Sabres' defensive depth as they approach the season. The coaching staff will need to rely on younger talent and depth players to step up in their absence.
Roster Adjustments
In light of these injuries, the Sabres have made a roster move by calling up Zach Metsa from the AHL. Metsa's promotion comes as Radim Mrtka is unable to participate in the preseason finale due to illness. Although Metsa has yet to make his NHL debut, his call-up underscores the Sabres’ need for fresh legs on the blue line.
Goaltending Situation
The Sabres are also contending with goaltending challenges as Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is injured. In his absence, Alex Lyon has emerged as a potential starter. Lyon, who has a reputation as an underdog, expressed his commitment to fostering a supportive atmosphere among the goaltenders. He aims to push his fellow netminders, including veteran Alexandar Georgiev, while acknowledging the importance of healthy competition within the team.
Lyon’s experience could prove invaluable, especially given his history of stepping up in crucial moments, such as his contributions to the Florida Panthers’ playoff run and the Chicago Wolves' Calder Cup victory.
TL;DR
- Owen Power is day-to-day with a strain, joining other injured defensemen.
- Zach Metsa has been called up to the NHL roster due to Radim Mrtka's illness.
- Alex Lyon may take on a larger role in net with the injury to Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.
- The Sabres are facing depth challenges as they prepare for the upcoming season.