Coach Lindy Ruff told the media Tuesday after practice that sparkplug Nathan Gerbe would be out at least 10 days with an upper body injury. However, Patrick Kaleta will try and provide the Sabres a jolt as he returns to the lineup tonight as the New Jersey Devils come to town. Kaleta has missed the last 7 games with a neck injury.
Scott Clemmensen, who has filled in admirably for Martin Brodeur, has been in net for the Devils' last two losses, but is not expected to play tonight. Saturday night, Patrick Lalime was able to shut the door for his second win this season while Thomas Vanek's two goals powered the Sabres to a 4-2 win. Last night, Clemensen could not stop Jason Blake's move in the shootout, which included a 360-spin, that clinched an overtime win at the Air Canada Center for Toronto. Kevin Weekes should get the nod in net tonight.
Lindy Ruff has said that he has been watching the standings since the second game of the season and now recognizes now is the time for the Sabres to make their move. Buffalo is currently tied for 8thh in the Eastern Conference with Carolina with 33 points. However, with a win tonight, the Sabres will move into a tie with the Devils for 7th place and inch closer to jumping other teams quickly. Pittsbugh holds the 6th place position with 36 points and Montreal is one point ahead of the Penguins.
Schopp and the Bulldog will broadcast from the HSBC Arena this afternoon and welcome in Rob Ray at 4 before Rick Jeanneret opens up the pregame show at 6.
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