BUFFALO – Some quick updates from HarborCenter, where the Sabres practiced about an hour before catching a flight for their two-game Florida road trip:
– Captain Brian Gionta, out the first three games with a lower-body injury, skated this morning beside center Jack Eichel and Evander Kane. He’s questionable for Thursday’s tilt against the Florida Panthers.
Gionta practiced Sunday but sat out the Sabres’ 4-2 win Monday afternoon.
“It’s one of those things, if you’re still feeling things, you’re able to gain three or four more days by waiting until Thursday,” Gionta said. “I want to make sure it’s 100 percent. It felt good. We’ll see what tomorrow brings.”
– Defenseman Zach Bogosian, out with a lower-body injury since the beginning of training camp, practiced for the first time today in a non-contact role. Bogosian is progressing and will make the trip, coach Dan Bylsma said.
– Defenseman Matt Donovan cleared waivers today, meaning he can report to the Rochester Americans.
Update: Donovan has been sent to the Amerks.