The Sabres have a back-to-back set of home games this weekend (Friday against Los Angeles, Saturday against Tampa Bay), and coach Lindy Ruff said today that captain Craig Rivet will likely return to the lineup at some point during this set. Rivet, on the road back from food poisoning, spent most of Thursday's practice in the arena working with Mike Weber but also spent some time alongside Shaone Morrisonn in place of Chris Butler, who would take a seat in the press box if Rivet comes back into the lineup.
"I would anticipate him playing this weekend," Ruff said of Rivet. "He's worked extremely hard through his virus and hopefully he's ready to be a factor in the games."
Patrick Kaleta had a full practice and might play this weekend. He'll have to go through Friday morning's skate before any decision is reached. Ruff said he would "give that some thought" when asked if Patrick Lalime might get a game but seemed to indicate the Sabres' place in the standings probably dictates Ryan Miller would get both starts. Especially since the team will be off until next Wednesday against Pittsburgh.
---Mike Harrington
(www.twitter.com/bnharrington)
