Jochen Hecht, who has yet to play this season after suffering a concussion during the opening practice of training camp, is finally back to 100 percent. The Sabres' forward expects to be in the lineup Wednesday when Buffalo hosts Boston.
"I’m excited about it," Hecht said after today's practice in First Niagara Center. "It’s been a long time. The last game was in the playoffs against Philly, so I’m excited to get out there and play."
Hecht suffered a concussion and a setback late in the regular season last year, and he managed to return for Game Seven of the first-round series loss to Philadelphia. He skated today with rookies Luke Adam and Corey Tropp.
"There’s two young kids and the old guy," said the 34-year-old. "We are going against the defending Stanley Cup champions, a big rivalry against them, a team that’s going really well right now. It’s a very important game for us. We’ve been struggling at home, and this might be a way to turn it around."
Right wing Patrick Kaleta missed today's practice for "maintenance," coach Lindy Ruff said, while left wing Tyler Ennis suffered a setback in his return from a sprained ankle.
"A little bit sore so decided to keep him off," Ruff said. "I think some of that can be expected. We ramped up the workload, so it tells us he’s not quite there yet."
To hear all of Ruff's interview, click the audio file below.
---John Vogl
