OTP - Can Kulich Fill A Top-Six Role? The Buffalo Sabres take on a pair of Atlantic Division rivals at home, facing WNY native Patrick Kane and the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday afternoon and the Florida Panthers on Monday night. Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff put the club through their paces at practice on Friday and provided an update on a couple of injured wingers. Sophomore Zach Benson did not play in the victory over Dallas on Tuesday and was not on the ice at Key Bank Center on Friday, but veteran Nicolas Aube-Kubel did participate for the first time since being injured in the opening game of the season three weeks ago. "We're hoping that (Zach) makes some progress. I had a short conversation with him today. He's doing okay, but (he's) still not where it needs to be to get back on the ice." Ruff said. "I think where we're at, we've got to get him healthy first before we get him back on or where's feeling great to get him to practice." Benson has struggled since suffering a lower-body injury leading into the season opener against New Jersey in Czechia at the beginning of the month. After sitting the second game against the Devils, the 19-year-old has battled through his injury issue, but and is scoreless in six games. Ruff is hoping that Benson can return after the Sabres light schedule this week. Aube-Kubel is possible for the Saturday matinee against the Wings, but is more likely to return on Monday against the Panthers. "He is available. We've had a discussion on, (whether) one full practice is going to be enough." Ruff said. "We took a look at him today. It's an option, but I don't know with only the one day, if it's the right option. I guarantee (he'll) be available for Monday because (there'll be a) few more practice days." Follow Michael on X @MikeInBuffalo [https://twitter.com/MikeInBuffalo]
