BUFFALO – Ninety-seven days after breaking his leg, Sabres defenseman Conor Timmins is expected to play tonight against the Boston Bruins.
Timmins, who has missed the last 38 games, was one of the first six defensemen to depart this morning’s optional skate. Meanwhile, rookie Zach Metsa, who has recently enjoyed semi-regular duty, stayed on the ice for extra work.
Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said Timmins, who began practicing March 14, is available to play tonight.
“He said he’s ready to go,” Ruff said.
Before going down Dec. 18, Timmins compiled six assists, 16 penalty minutes and a minus-11 rating in 33 games. He made his biggest contributions as a penalty killer.
“I was happy with my game,” Timmins said. “I think I was being an impact player and contributing.”
Nine defensemen participated in this morning’s pregame skate, including Mattias Samuelsson, who missed Tuesday’s practice because of illness.
Ruff said Samuelsson is a game-time decision tonight.