Leino missed the last four games after suffering a lower-body injury on December 31. Leino has six assists and is a minus-6 in 26 games this season. He will skate on the third line with Brian Flynn and Linus Omark.
Leino missed the Sabres contest on Thursday after being forced from Tuesday's game in the first period. There has always been high hopes for Leino since coming to the NHL, but aside from his 53-point 2010-11 season, he has been a big disappointment. He has six assists and a minus-6 rating in 26 games this season.
Coach Ron Rolston said it's a "possibility" that Leino returns against the Lightning. The Sabres would need to clear a roster spot to activate Leino, and they could do so by placing defenseman Mike Weber on injured reserve. Leino has missed the last 11 games, and should provide a nice offensive boost for a Sabres team who is having a tough time scoring.
Leino was injured in the first period in yesterday's contest with the Red Wings, but continued to play. Johan Larsson will step into the lineup at centre and Tyler Ennis will shift to the wing.
Rolston said Leino’s injury doesn’t require surgery. While Rolston wouldn’t speculate, with only 10 games left, the Finn’s season could be over. A hip injury sidelined Leino the first 27 games this season.
Darcy Regier said Leino will be unavailable for a few days. Luke Adam has been recalled.
Leino was a regular in practice again today and will suit up for the Sabres tomorrow barring any setbacks.
Leino has not played in a game this season. He has never lived up to his hype so wait for him to produce before adding him to your fantasy roster.
Leino declared himself ready to play last weekend but it is up to Ron Rolston to make the call on when he will insert Leino into the lineup. Based on how the Sabres have been transitioning guys in and out of the second powerplay role, expect Leino to get some time there quickly.
Leino needs to prove to fantasy owners that he can score at this level before he becomes fantasy relevant.
Leino moves off the top line. He scored eight goals and 25 points in 70 games.
Leino moves down to the third line for tonight's game. He has four goals and 18 points in 51 games.
Leino moves from the top line to the second. In his first season with the Sabres, the Finnish winger scored four goals and 17 points through 47 games.
Leino moved up to the first line during today's practice. In his first 45 games with the Sabres, he has four goals and 15 points.
Leino gets back into the lineup for the first time since December 13th. He has three goals and 10 points through 29 games.
Leino has been sidelined since December 13th. He has three goals and 10 points in his first season up North.
Leino has been sidelined since December 13th. He has three goals and 10 points in his first season up North.
Add Leino to the long list of wounded Sabres. The Savonlinna, Finland native has three goals and 10 points in his first season with Buffalo in what has to be viewed as a down season.
Leino gets back into the lineup after a one-game suspension. He has three goals and 10 points through 27 games and figures to play on a scoring line with Jochen Hecht out.
Leino was in a slump prior to the suspension, scoring only three goals and 10 points in 27 games. An already depleted Buffalo Sabres roster will need to summon yet another player to fill their lines.
