BUFFALO, N.Y. - The Buffalo Sabres sent defenceman Mark Pysyk to Rochester of the American Hockey League, a move that will allow the rookie to play during the NHL's Olympic break.

The Sabres made the move before a deadline Friday that would have prevented Pysyk from playing in the minors during the 16-day break that begins Feb. 9.

Pysyk missed Buffalo's past two games with an undisclosed injury. He has a goal and five assists in 42 games this season.

To fill his spot, the Sabres recalled defenceman Chad Ruhwedel from Rochester.

Buffalo plays at Columbus on Saturday night.