Vanek Injury Big Blow to Sabres

BUFFALO, NY (WIVB) - Lindy Ruff didn't offer any specifics.  But Sabres fans who watched Thomas Vanek struggle to leave the ice didn't need specifics.  They are worried about the team's top goal scorer and his status for Game 3 in Boston on Monday.

Ruff said Vanek suffered a lower body injury on a play in the first period.  As Vanek broke in, he was slashed on the right knee by Johnny Boychuk.  Both then crashed into the end boards, and Vanek could not put pressure on his left leg. Ruff wasn't specific about the injury or how it happened, but it appears that the left lower leg may have been injured when Boychuk fell on Vanek after the collision.

Ruff says he "anticipates" that Vanek will travel with the team to Boston on Sunday.  The Sabres will practice at the HSBC Arena before leaving, and that could provide some more insight into Vanek's status.

If Vanek can't go...and if its a serious ankle sprain we could be talking weeks...the Sabres will need a replacement in the lineup and for the offense.  Ruff says Drew Stafford, a possible sub, has still not been cleared to play afte suffering a concussion last week.  Nathan Gerbe, just sent down Friday, could be called up.

But it's what Vanek brings to the Sabres that won't be easily replaced.  He is a premier offensive skill player, who can create and score goals without much work.  The Sabres don't have another player like that.  They will need more hard work and more goals from unexpected players like Craig Rivet and Matt Ellis.