BUFFALO – With goalie Carter Hutton absent from Saturday’s practice for maintenance, the Sabres recalled Andrew Hammond from the Rochester Americans.
Sabres coach Ralph Krueger said Hutton’s absence isn’t related to the hit he took from Columbus Blue Jackets forward Eric Robinson in Thursday’s 4-3 overtime win.
A puck also hit Hutton in mask earlier in the night.
“We’re quite optimistic about his rehab day today,” Krueger said when asked about Hutton’s status for tonight’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at KeyBank Center.
Hammond, 32, has compiled a 13-11-2 mark with a 2.59 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage in 28 appearances with the Amerks. The Sabres recalled him last week when Hutton missed a game for a family matter.
The Sabres also summoned defenseman John Gilmour from the Amerks on Saturday to replace Zach Bogosian, who was assigned to the AHL club after clearing waivers.
Gilmour, 26, began the season with the Sabres, playing four games.
“I’m stoked, so happy, excellent news,” he said of his recall. “Just excited to be in the best league in the world again.”
Gilmour, an AHL All-Star last season, often struggled defensively with the Amerks. On Feb. 8, he was even a healthy scratch.
“Definitely a different week compared to most weeks,” he said. “A little adversity a week ago (before) getting a call last night.
Gilmour has compiled six goals, 13 points and a minus-14 rating with the Amerks.
Meanwhile, winger Marcus Johansson practiced Saturday inside LECOM Harborcenter after an upper-body injury sidelined him Thursday.
Johansson said he felt good and hopes he can play tonight. The Swede ended a 14-game goal drought in Tuesday’s 3-2 win over the Detroit Red Wings.
Illness kept winger Michael Frolik from practicing.
Krueger said he is “optimistic” Frolik can play Sunday.