Sabres News: Preseason Update, Injury Status, and Key Player Performances

The Buffalo Sabres are at the halfway point of their preseason schedule, with their season opener against the Blue Jackets in Columbus just one week away on October 1.

Preseason Underway

The preseason is nearing its end, and the Sabres have showcased both their depth players and their main NHL roster. Their preseason began Monday against the Pittsburgh Penguins, where most non-roster players participated in a 4-1 loss. The following day, the NHL lineup took the ice at KeyBank Center, securing a decisive 5-1 victory over the Jackets.

While the Pittsburgh game offered little insight, goaltender Colten Ellis was a bright spot. He stopped all eight shots he faced in the third period, appearing sharp and composed.

Tuesday's game provided more substantial observations. With the NHL roster playing, the Sabres displayed speed, cohesion, and control from the start. Although Columbus played with a lineup of non-roster players, Buffalo executed their plays effectively, managed clean zone exits, moved the puck quickly, and capitalized on their chances.

The line of Zach Benson, Noah Ostlund, and Jack Quinn was particularly impressive, driving play and generating offense consistently. Benson recorded two assists, Ostlund scored twice, and Quinn added an assist. Their evident chemistry suggests this trio could become a top line for the team this season.

The defense also performed well. Fans saw the new pairing of Owen Power and Olen Zellweger for the first time. They seemed comfortable together, moving the puck efficiently and complementing each other. Zellweger's game ended early due to a concussion, one of two injuries sustained by the Sabres on defense.

Goaltending was another positive. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stopped all 13 shots through two periods, appearing calm and technically sound. Ellis followed with 11 saves on 12 shots in the third, securing the win. Across both games, Ellis has been Buffalo's most notable preseason performer.

Despite the strong performance, injuries to Mattias Samuelsson and Zellweger cast a shadow over the final days of camp. Their availability could impact the Sabres' roster decisions leading up to Opening Night.

The Sabres have two preseason games remaining: Thursday in Detroit against the Red Wings at 7 p.m. EDT, and Saturday at home against the Penguins at 3 p.m. EDT. These final games are critical for players competing for roster spots and for the coaching staff to assess adjustments needed due to the absences of Samuelsson and Zellweger.

Injury Updates: Samuelsson and Zellweger

During Tuesday's game, Mattias Samuelsson blocked a shot and left for the locker room. Olen Zellweger suffered a hard hit from Carson Soucy late in the period and required assistance to leave the ice. Neither player returned to the game.

Following the game, Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff stated that Samuelsson is considered week-to-week with a lower-body injury and will be re-evaluated over the next few weeks. Zellweger is in concussion protocol, making his return timeline uncertain.

Ruff acknowledged the team's defensive depth, adding that discussions about seeking external defensive help have not occurred. The focus remains on internal options.

With the season opener approaching, Buffalo may need to rely on players like Dennis Gilbert, Zach Metsa, Ryan Johnson, and potentially Radim Mrtka. The coaching staff will determine the best course of action, and Ruff appears confident in the current group.