BUFFALO – Slowly, the Sabres are starting to get some healthy bodies back.
Three injured players returned in Tuesday’s 4-2 loss to Detroit. Now, they might have two more back Thursday in New York.
Winger Drew Stafford (undisclosed) pronounced himself ready during this morning’s practice, Sabres coach Ted Nolan said. Meanwhile, defenseman Henrik Tallinder (undisclosed) said following practice he’s a game-time decision for the Rangers.
“Hank, he gave me the old 95-percent sure look,” Nolan said inside the First Niagara Center.
Center Zenon Konopka, a healthy scratch Tuesday after recovering from a lower-body injury, practiced on the fourth line today. Winger Cory Conacher appeared to be a spare.
With injured players back, the Sabres sent rookie forwards Nick Deslauriers and Johan Larsson back to Rochester today.
Nolan said the Sabres will likely assign rookie defensemen Mark Pysyk and Rasmus Ristolainen to the Americans soon.
“One will go back probably quicker,” he said.
In other lineup news, Nolan said goalie Matt Hackett will start the final three games. Backup Andrey Makarov will return to the Amerks, who are battling for a playoff spot, Friday. Nolan isn’t sure where the Sabres will find a new goalie.
In other news, Nolan said defenseman Tyler Myers, who crashed into the net March 25, won’t play again this season.
“If I’m a betting man, he’s not going to see any more game action until next season,” he said.
Move from defense to wing helped Sabres’ Nicolas Deslauriers earn notice, first NHL recall
