Josh Gorges has missed five games. ©2014, Dan Hickling, Olean Times Herald

Sabres’ Tyler Myers ’50-50′ for Friday, Josh Gorges getting closer to returning

BUFFALO – The Sabres’ battered defense corps could receive some reinforcements soon.

Tyler Myers, a surprise scratch for Wednesday’s 2-1 loss to Winnipeg, is “50-50” for Friday’s home tilt, Sabres coach Ted Nolan said this afternoon. Myers has a lower-body injury and missed today’s short practice.

Meanwhile, Josh Gorges, out the last five games with a knee injury, practiced fully today and is getting closer to playing. The Sabres play the Montreal Canadiens, Gorges’ old team, Friday and Saturday.

“That was my goal the whole time, was to be back by sometime this weekend,” Gorges said inside the First Niagara Center.

Gorges must make sure he doesn’t rush back. Nolan said the staff and doctors, not the player, will decide when Gorges returns.

“I got to be smart and make sure if I do come back and play, first of all, I don’t put my team in jeopardy,” Gorges said. “If I’m not effective, I’m only hurting my team. At the same time, I have to make sure I don’t go too early where something happens and I’m out for another two or three weeks.”

Gorges said he has felt “pretty good” the last couple days.

“It’s day it’s been getting better, progressing real well,” Gorges said. “It’s a matter of feeling comfortable with my mobility, my movement and making sure I’m strong enough where no sudden movements or hits are going to tear it again.”

In other news, Nolan said the Sabres won’t make any moves today. Goalie Jhonas Enroth will likely start Friday, his third straight nod.

Center Cody Hodgson missed today’s practice because of a family matter.

Update: The Winnipeg Jets’ Adam Lowry has been suspended one game for boarding Sabres winger Patrick Kaleta on Wednesday. Lowry will forfeit $4,453.51 in salary. Kaleta left the game briefly before returning.

Related: After emotional exit from Canadiens, Josh Gorges happy to be with Sabres

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *