Mike Weber (6) lifts his stick on Columbus’ Cam Atkinson on Thursday. ©2013, Dan Hickling, Olean Times Herald

Sabres could scratch struggling Mike Weber

BUFFALO – Not surprisingly, Sabres defenseman Mike Weber, an NHL-worst minus-8, could be benched for Saturday’s game in Chicago against the Blackhawks, the defending Stanley Cup champions.

Weber, a minus-4 in Thursday’s listless 4-1 loss to Columbus, skated with 18-year-old rookie Nikita Zadorov during this morning’s practice inside the First Niagara Center. Zadorov working his way back from a finger injury.

Meanwhile, defenseman Alexander Sulzer, a healthy scratch all season, skated beside Tyler Myers today. Myers spent most of the last two games with Weber before coach Ron Rolston broke up the struggling pair.

“Quite possible,” Rolston said about Sulzer playing.

Meanwhile, center Cody Hodgson had another maintenance day today but will play Saturday, Rolston said. Rolston said he’s not worried about Hodgson’s injury lingering.

Winger Patrick Kaleta, who has an in-person hearing today for hitting Jack Johnson, missed the session. Rolston said Kaleta’s absence was injury-related.

“A couple loose chiclets,” Rolston said.

Kaleta left Thursday’s game after fighting Jared Boll and returned wearing a full face shield.

Rolston said Henrik Tallinder (upper body) could return Monday. The defenseman has been practicing in a non-contact role. He just started shooting.

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