The Buffalo Sabres could receive some unexpected reinforcements in Round 2 against the Montreal Canadiens.
Centre Sam Carrick, who had originally been ruled out for the entirety of the second round, is now listed as day to day, head coach Lindy Ruff told reporters on Tuesday.
The 10-year NHL veteran has been practising with the Sabres ahead of their clash with the Canadiens.
Carrick last played on March 31 when he sustained an upper-body injury during a fight with New York Islanders captain Anders Lee.
In speaking with reporters on Tuesday, Carrick said the initial thought was that he would be sidelined for six to eight weeks, but credited the Sabres' rehabilitation team for his accelerated recovery.
The 34-year-old was acquired by the Sabres ahead of the trade deadline in a deal with the New York Rangers. Since joining Buffalo, the forward has five goals and one assist in 13 games.
The Canadiens visit the Sabres to open Round 2 on Wednesday. Catch all the action on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ with coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.
