Sabers’ Jiri Kulic to miss ‘significant time’ with blood clot – Hockey Writer – Buffalo Sabers
Buffalo Sabers forward Jiri Kulic will miss an extended period due to a blood clot, according to head coach Lindy Love’s statement after Monday’s practice. Coolidge last played for the Sabers in a shootout victory over the Washington Capitals. “It’s related to a blood clot that was discovered,” Love said. “I won’t go into further detail, but it’s pretty serious.” At this time, Love could not provide a timetable for Coolic’s return and said his progress will depend on what happens in three to four weeks.
Sabers add another injury to growing injury list
This season, Coolic played 12 games and scored 5 points (3 goals and 2 assists). Love also provided an update on the status of Zach Benson and Jason Zach, both of whom did not practice Monday. Zucker has missed the past two games and is unlikely to return for Buffalo’s remaining four road games. He is currently being treated for a flu-like viral illness. Benson, on the other hand, has improved from his lower body injury but is not yet ready to join the team for training. According to Love, the team is still deciding whether to put him on the road.
How these absences will impact the Sabers?
As of this writing, the Sabers rank 23rd in personnel advantage conversion rate. One possible factor in the lackluster production of this power drama is the absence of two of its productions, Benson and Zack. Buffalo has amassed five goals this season thanks to Benson Zach Donne Thompson’s high-powered offense while denying opponents a goal shorthanded. Thompson, meanwhile, is currently without his two most notable teammates in Benson and Coolidge.
Teams show their true identity when faced with adversity. With three games of a four-game road trip remaining and captain Rasmus Dahlin temporarily sidelined, the Sabres’ defense will be tested as they remain hopeful of picking up their first win as a visiting team of the season. Only time will tell if this team has what it takes to break out of a 14-year drought, or if Groundhog Day continues in Buffalo and this time an injury will cost them a playoff trip.
