The Sabres had an optional practice today in HSBC Arena with about a dozen players on the ice. Ryan Miller was among those who took a well-deserved rest after Wednesday's 5-3 win over Dallas, Buffalo's third straight. Miller is probably getting more rest Friday night as it looks like Patrick Lalime will start in goal here against the Minnesota Wild. That would leave Michigan native Miller to play in his homecoming game in front of friends and family Saturday in Detroit.
With three games in four nights, it was pretty obvious Lalime would play this weekend and you'd think Miller would be playing in Detroit. But the stats dictate that too; Lalime is 1-10 with a 4.85 goals-against average in his career against the Wings but 2-3-1, 2.64 against the Wild.
"I'm looking forward to it. It's down the stretch for us an a chance to go back in there will be nice," said Lalime, who will once again be gunning for his 200th NHL win.
Paul Gaustad took part today in his first contact sessions and Lindy Ruff said it's possible Gaustad could play this weekend. If not, he's certainly looking good for next week's Southern swing that opens Tuesday in Atlanta.
---Mike Harrington
(www.twitter.com/bnharrington)
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