Buffalo Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff made the announcement that top scorer Tage Thompson and starting goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen would not be playing in the upcoming game against the St. Louis Blues. Both players are currently listed as day-to-day and are expected to be back in action when the Sabres face off against the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday.
Thompson, who has scored 11 goals so far this season, just one shy of the NHL lead, is sidelined with a lower-body injury that he sustained during a recent game against Montreal. On the other hand, Luukkonen is dealing with a minor ailment, according to Ruff.
In their absence, Devon Levi is set to take over goaltending duties against the Blues, with James Reimer serving as the backup. Reimer was recently claimed off waivers after being released by Anaheim, adding some depth to the Sabres’ goaltending lineup.
This unexpected lineup change comes at a crucial time for the Sabres as they look to maintain their momentum in the upcoming games. Despite missing two key players, the team remains optimistic about their chances and is focused on putting up a strong performance against the Blues.
The game against the St. Louis Blues will be a challenging one for the Sabres, but it also presents an opportunity for some new faces to step up and make an impact. Fans can expect to see a competitive game as the Sabres look to secure a victory on home ice.
As the Sabres face this temporary setback, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports and the resilience required to overcome obstacles. With a strong support system and a determined mindset, the Sabres are confident that they can weather this storm and come out stronger on the other side.
Stay tuned for updates on Thompson and Luukkonen’s recovery timelines and be sure to catch the Sabres in action as they take on the St. Louis Blues in what promises to be an exciting matchup.