The Buffalo Sabres continue to manage a challenging stretch of injuries, with winger Jordan Greenway expected to undergo surgery and center Josh Norris confirmed to remain sidelined until after the Olympic break. This update comes as the team prepares for tonight’s game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at KeyBank Center.
Norris to Miss More Time with Upper-Body Injury
Josh Norris, who has struggled with health throughout the season, will not play before the Olympic break, according to head coach Lindy Ruff. Norris has missed the last 11 games due to an upper-body issue but has resumed practice recently. Despite being close to returning, Ruff emphasized Norris is not yet ready to compete.
“He’s close, but (the) conversations we’ve had, if he would’ve been available, he would’ve played. He’s not available, but I would fully anticipate after break he’ll be good.” – Lindy Ruff, Head Coach
Norris has appeared in only 19 games this season but has contributed six goals and 17 points when healthy. The Sabres will likely continue to monitor his recovery during the upcoming pause in the schedule.
Greenway’s Condition Requires Surgical Decision
Jordan Greenway, sidelined for six games due to persistent discomfort following two hernia operations, recently consulted with medical professionals to determine the next steps in his treatment. Coach Ruff shared that the team is still assessing the situation and expects to have clarity shortly on what the player requires.
“We’re just trying to figure out exactly needs to be done, so we’ll know that within the next couple days.” – Lindy Ruff, Head Coach
Greenway’s situation adds to the Sabres’ ongoing difficulties with injuries to key forwards, impacting their lineup depth and offensive options.
Additional Players Recovering from Injuries
The Sabres face more absences as winger Zach Benson remains out following an upper-body injury sustained after colliding with the boards during a recent win over the Florida Panthers. Benson is expected to miss tonight’s game but aims for a return after the break.
“Got a good report on him. Just going to need a little bit of therapy, and he should be back after the break, too.” – Lindy Ruff, Head Coach
Defenseman Conor Timmins, recovering from a broken leg and absent for 23 games, is making progress but still requires crutches. Ruff noted Timmins might begin skating in the near future but is unlikely to rejoin the lineup immediately after the break.
“I wouldn’t anticipate him being back right (after the break), but I think by that time he may be skating, hopefully.” – Lindy Ruff, Head Coach
Lineup Changes for Tonight’s Game
In goal, Alex Lyon is projected to start for the Sabres against the Penguins. Coach Ruff announced a defensive change, opting to include Michael Kesselring in place of Zach Metsa, adjusting the roster to accommodate current player availability.
Looking Forward
The injury challenges facing Buffalo will require ongoing attention as the team approaches the Olympic break and beyond. The status of key players such as Norris, Greenway, Benson, and Timmins will be critical for the Sabres’ competitiveness in the remainder of the season. The decisions surrounding Greenway’s surgery and Norris’ rehabilitation will significantly influence the team’s lineup strength heading into post-break contests.
