Eichel was hurt in Wednesday’s practice and the Sabres said it was a high ankle sprain but did not give a timetable for his return. On Thursday, Sabres’ GM Tim Murray said that 6-8 weeks could be a possible timetable for Eichel. The second-year forward can’t put any weight on his injured ankle, he was seen on Thursday using a scooter to get around.
Eichel suffered a high ankle sprain in Wednesday’s practice and will likely miss a minimum of 4-to-6 weeks. It could be much longer, but the Sabres have not released a timetable. Eichel’s injury means that Johan Larsson and Tyler Ennis will likely take on bigger roles.
Eichel’s leg bent backwards awkwardly and had to be helped off of the ice and appeared to be a serious amount of pain. All signs are pointing towards Eichel missing some time, but there likely won’t be an update until later today. Consider him doubtful for Thursday’s season opener.
Eichel missed Saturday’s game in Toronto will an illness, but it looks like he will return to the Sabres lineup on Tuesday. Monitor his status during tomorrow’s morning skate to be sure, but all signs are pointing towards him returning.
Selected second overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, Eichel joins the organization after a standout season at Boston University (NCAA-Hockey East) in which he became the second freshman – after Paul Kariya in 1993 – ever to earn the Hobey Baker Memorial Award as college hockey’s top player. Eichel led all NCAA players with 71 points (26G / 45A) in 40 games in 2014-15.
