Lindy Ruff just announced that Jochen Hecht had to have another procedure on his finger yesterday and will be out for "weeks, not days." Looks like he's out for the entire series, perhaps longer if the Sabres advance.
It sucks in a way, but I'm glad both Gerbe and Ennis will most likely be sticking around.
Gerbe likely won't. With Hecht and Stafford out, they have 11 healthy forwards. Ennis makes 12.
But this sucks. Hecht has arguably been the most valuable forward for this team in terms of overall play. Chips in offensively and is awesome defensively.
Gerbe likely won't. With Hecht and Stafford out, they have 11 healthy forwards. Ennis makes 12.
But this sucks. Hecht has arguably been the most valuable forward for this team in terms of overall play. Chips in offensively and is awesome defensively.
Pretty much. Losing him is a substantial blow.
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It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it. - Aristotle
last year I feel like I would have been elated for him to have been out for a young guy in his place, but this is rough, he is perhaps the one forward whose style of play is the perfect example of what is required in playoff hockey.
I'm looking at Torres right now, as he is the guy I think has the best skillset to come in and replace Hecht.
Very much so. I said in the injury thread a few days ago that losing Hecht could be a crippling blow to the team. I really feel that he is one of the main pieces that has made this team a success this year. Hecht in the lineup changes the complexion of two lines completely.
edit: They really Torres to step up and be an impact player now.
How does Hecht go from being a game-time decision to being out for weeks in a day?
I'm no expert in reading between the lines, but it sounded sort of like he made it worse practicing? I hope he didn't injure it further by trying to rush back...
"Ruff did not disclose the nature of the injury and would only say there was further damage to Hecht’s finger."
This is what I'm thinking too. I do not want to see Ennis playing top 2 lines during his first playoff game. I don't think he brings any of the things that we lose when Hecht is out.
and besides, Torres is a proven commodity with significant cup run experience. We need to use him tonight.