Buffalo Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff announced Josh Norris is "ahead of schedule" in his recovery from an upper-body injury suffered in the team's season-opening loss to the New York Rangers.
Norris, who's so far missed just under six weeks of action, rejoined the Sabres on the ice for a skate ahead of Monday night's game against the Edmonton Oilers.
Ruff said it was an "encouraging step" for the Blue and Gold's first-line center, but there's still not a concrete date for his return to the lineup, per Matthew Fairburn of The Athletic.
Norris has played just four games for Buffalo since being acquired from the Ottawa Senators ahead of last season's trade deadline because of injuries.
Jason Zucker could rejoin Buffalo Sabres lineup this weekend
Zucker has been dealing with a viral illness that landed him on injured reserve for more than two weeks. He finally made his return to practice Monday morning, which signals he's probably turned a corner in his recovery.
Ruff confirmed the veteran winger is tracking toward getting back in game action this weekend, likely pointing toward Friday against the Chicago Blackhawks or Sunday against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Zucker has recorded seven points (four goals and three assists) in 12 appearances this season. He tallied 21 goals and 32 helpers across 73 games for the Sabres in 2024-25, his first campaign in Buffalo.
Getting him back should provide a boost to Buffalo's often listless power play.
Michael Kesseling is going to "miss some time" with injury
Alas, as the Sabres getting closer to some important returns among their forward group, the defensive corps are taking a significant hit.
Kesselring, who was trending toward his best game in a Buffalo jersey on Saturday night against the Detroit Red Wings, left the contest with a lower-body injury.
Ruff said the 6-foot-5 defenseman is still being evaluated to determine a recovery timetable, but he won't be available for awhile.
The Sabres did recently get Rasmus Dahlin back, which provided a major boost to the team's blue line, but it's unfortunate Kesselring is already dealing with his second significant injury since joining the organization in the blockbuster JJ Peterka trade over the offseason.
His absence will create an opportunity for Jacob Bryson to play a full-time role, though it wouldn't be a surprise to see Zach Metsa also draw some starts. Ruff will probably ride the hot hand.