Sabres’ Luukkonen, Kesselring Injured; Lyon to Start Friday

Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and defenseman Michael Kesselring are undergoing evaluation for injuries sustained during Wednesday’s preseason game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, potentially impacting the team’s roster ahead of the October 9th season opener.

Head coach Lindy Ruff indicated today that the team hopes Luukkonen’s injury is different from the issue that kept him out of training camp. Alex Lyon will start in net for the Sabres during Friday’s game in Pittsburgh, and is expected to play at least two periods. Ruff stated, “If he comes to the rink tomorrow and feels good, in all likelihood, we’ll play him,” referring to defenseman Bo Byram, who practiced Thursday and is a possibility to play Friday.

Positive news surrounds defensemen Mattias Samuelsson and winger Zach Benson; Samuelsson is reportedly feeling good and could return to full practice tomorrow, while Benson is also improving and is projected to be back in practice within a day or two. “Benson feels good. I would project him back in practice in a day or two,” Ruff said. The Sabres are currently evaluating their defensive depth as they prepare for the regular season, a key area of focus after last season’s playoff run. For more on the Sabres’ roster, visit the official NHL website.

Ruff confirmed that Luukkonen and Kesselring are the two players currently questionable for the October 9th opener against the New York Rangers, though the severity of their injuries remains unknown. Following Friday’s game, the team will begin a previously planned retreat, officially concluding training camp. You can find more information about the Buffalo area and its hockey culture here.