The Buffalo Sabres are evaluating their options for the fourth line after Sam Carrick suffered a left-arm injury during a fight against the Islanders, leaving him out week to week, according to an April 3 report. Coach Lindy Ruff said Carrick had quickly become an important part of the team since being acquired from the Rangers, contributing five goals, one assist, and a strong presence in faceoffs over just 13 games.
Carrick’s absence is significant because he led the team with a 57.3 percent faceoff win rate and provided physicality and scoring on the fourth line. Ruff said, “It’s the ‘next man up,’ his loss. He really played well for us. He had found a real good role. We were looking at him helping us with faceoffs. That fourth line was scoring important goals. It’s a loss, but you’ve got to have somebody step in and make up for a body that’s going out.”
Beck Malenstyn has been a constant on that line this season, playing nearly every game and ranking among league leaders in hits while adding six goals. Ruff commented on Malenstyn’s improvement: “There’s a couple times I’ve said, ‘Wow.’” Jordan Greenway recently returned from injury and brings defensive skills as well as size to the group.
Josh Dunne centered Malenstyn and Greenway in Ottawa Thursday, winning four of seven faceoffs in his first game back after missing time due to injury himself. Tyson Kozak was seen centering those wingers at Friday’s practice; Ruff described Kozak as offering speed when inserted into the lineup.
Veteran winger Tanner Pearson may also factor into future combinations once he returns fully; he scored seven goals earlier this season with Winnipeg before joining Buffalo.
The Sabres held an energetic practice Friday aiming to regain their fast-paced style ahead of Saturday night’s matchup against Washington. Lyon is expected to start in goal following recent performances by Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.
Looking ahead, puck drop between Buffalo and Washington is scheduled for 7 p.m., with pregame coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m.
