The Buffalo Sabres are set to face significant challenges in their upcoming second-round series without key players. According to coach Lindy Ruff, both Carrick and Ostlund will not participate in the matchup.
Player Injuries Impact Sabres’ Playoff Run
Forward Connor Carrick last appeared in a game on March 31. He suffered an upper-body injury after a fight against Anders Lee of the New York Islanders. The 34-year-old joined the Sabres through a trade with the New York Rangers. Since his arrival in Buffalo, Carrick has recorded five goals and one assist over 13 games.
Meanwhile, rookie center Noah Ostlund is also sidelined due to a lower-body injury. This occurred in the first period of Game 5 against the Boston Bruins. During the match, Bruins player Casey Mittelstadt awkwardly landed on Ostlund’s left leg. Before the injury, Ostlund had been enjoying a promising rookie campaign, scoring 11 goals and providing 16 assists in 60 games. In the first round, he made a notable impact with one goal and one assist in three games.
Upcoming Matchup Details
The Sabres are still awaiting the results of the decisive Game 7 between the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning. This game will determine who Buffalo will face in the second round of the playoffs.
Summary of Key Player Statistics
| Player | Games Played | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connor Carrick | 13 | 5 | 1 |
| Noah Ostlund | 60 | 11 | 16 |
The absence of Carrick and Ostlund poses a considerable challenge for Buffalo as they prepare for the next stage of their playoff journey.
