Buffalo Sabres forward Nicolas Aube-Kubel is gearing up to make his return to the ice after being out of action due to a lower-body injury sustained in the season opener on October 4. The 28-year-old is set to play against the Florida Panthers on Monday, as confirmed by Sabres coach Lindy Ruff.
Aube-Kubel has been back in practice since October 22, and during a recent session on Sunday, he was seen skating at the left wing alongside center Dylan Cozens and right wing Jack Quinn. Coach Ruff mentioned that they are considering this line combination for the upcoming game against the Panthers, noting Aube-Kubel’s speed and strength on the puck as valuable assets. With the Panthers known for their physical style of play, having Aube-Kubel’s forechecking abilities could provide an advantage for the Sabres.
The injury, which occurred during a game against the New Jersey Devils in the 2024 NHL Global Series Czechia, was initially expected to keep Aube-Kubel sidelined for three to six weeks. The mishap took place when he was trying to make a play against Devils defenseman Jonathan Kovacevic, resulting in an awkward twist of his leg due to their skates getting entangled.
Having signed with the Sabres on a one-year contract in July, Aube-Kubel will be looking to make an impact upon his return to the lineup. In the previous season, he tallied six goals, 10 assists, and an impressive 159 hits in 60 games with the Washington Capitals. Throughout his career, which has seen stints with teams like the Philadelphia Flyers, Colorado Avalanche, and Toronto Maple Leafs, Aube-Kubel has amassed a total of 31 goals, 47 assists, and 635 hits in 283 games.
Notably, Aube-Kubel was part of the Avalanche squad that clinched the Stanley Cup in 2022, adding a significant achievement to his professional hockey career. As he prepares to step back onto the ice against the Panthers, fans and teammates will be eager to see him bring his energy and skills to the game, hoping he can make a positive impact in the Sabres’ upcoming matchups.