Buffalo head coach Lindy Ruff provided an injury update after Friday’s practice that left alex tuch listed as a possibility to play in Saturday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs while three other players remain uncertain.
Alex Tuch’s Status After Practice
Ruff said alex tuch took part in Friday’s practice and would receive post-practice treatment before a final determination is made. The coach described Tuch as a possibility to play Saturday but declined to give a definitive answer.
Tuch missed Thursday’s 2-1 loss to the Washington Capitals with a lower-body injury; Ruff noted the 29-year-old winger likely would have played if the game had been a playoff contest. Tuch has recorded 57 points, with 28 goals and 29 assists, in 64 appearances this season.
Other Injury Updates: Samuelsson, Pearson, Colten Ellis
Defenseman Mattias Samuelsson, winger Tanner Pearson and goalie Colten Ellis did not take part in practice and were listed as having maintenance issues. Ruff said Samuelsson may not be able to play and Pearson will likely be held out. Ellis missed practice after something flared up during a prior session and is being checked to ensure there is nothing serious.
Timmins, Roster Depth and What Comes Next
Ruff also discussed Conor Timmins, who has been sidelined since suffering a broken leg on Dec. 18. The coach said Timmins could possibly join the team for a skate on Saturday; if not, he is expected to be back on the ice next week as he progresses toward game action.
The coach emphasized the club’s roster depth and the options it provides when managing minor injuries and maintenance concerns. He said the team is focused on assembling the best lineup to win and to secure a playoff spot while managing players who might be a bit banged up.
Buffalo’s eight-game post-Olympic winning streak ended with the loss to Washington, and the team will head out for a four-game road trip before hosting the NCAA tournament next week. The immediate next test is Saturday night against the Toronto Maple Leafs, where final lineup decisions will follow post-practice evaluations and treatment.
