On defense, meanwhile, the Sabres could be without Logan Stanley on Friday. The big blueliner missed practice with an illness, and his status is uncertain for Game 6.
“He was worse yesterday, better today,” Ruff said. “But then you’re missing a couple days, and you haven’t ate. We’re gonna have to judge where the energy level is, too.”
If Stanley can’t play, it will likely be Michael Kesselring filling in on a pair with Conor Timmins. Kesselring, who’s only played two games since mid-March, has been anxiously watching the series from the press box and awaiting his playoff debut.
“It kind of depends on how Stan’s feeling, but I mean, Game 6 in my hometown, I couldn’t be more excited if I get the opportunity,” said the 26-year-old, who grew up in New Hampshire and played at Northeastern. “… I’ve been watching close, so I’ll be ready to go if I do get to play.”
Kesselring never really got into a rhythm as he battled lower-body injuries earlier this season, but he’s confident this extended practice time has him game ready – whether that’s Friday in Boston or later in a playoff run.
“I think it’ll be good for me just to get in that mindset of playing, just in case [Stanley] doesn’t. Or even for the future, if someone gets banged up or whatever,” Kesselring continued. “I feel good, I feel like I’m skating really well again, and I really strongly believe I can help our team.”
Here are some more notes from Thursday’s practice.
