Barring a last-minute setback, Jack Eichel is likely to make his season debut tomorrow in Ottawa.
The Buffalo Sabres forward started practicing with his teammates last week, and he’s progressed from there.
“He responded well,” said head coach Dan Bylsma, per John Vogl of The Buffalo News. “He looks really good.”
Eichel, 20, suffered a high-ankle sprain during practice on Oct. 12, the day before the Sabres’ season-opener. He was expected to miss 6-8 weeks, so his return tomorrow would be within that time frame.
The Sabres (7-9-5) could certainly use his offense, given they’re averaging the fewest goals per game (1.81) in the league.
If Eichel plays, expect him to skate with Evander Kane and Sam Reinhart on his wings.
Ryan O’Reilly will center the other top line, between Matt Moulson and Kyle Okposo.
"You just think about the matchups ... everyone's going to benefit from him getting back in the lineup." - Bylsma on Eichel.
— John Vogl (@BuffaloVogl) November 28, 2016