Sabres Defenseman Conor Timmins Suffers Leg Injury, Out 6-8 Weeks
Buffalo Sabres defenseman Conor Timmins is set to miss approximately six to eight weeks after suffering a broken left leg during a game against the Philadelphia Flyers. The injury occurred in the third period of the match on January 4, 2024, which the Sabres won 5-3. Head coach Lindy Ruff confirmed the timeline for Timmins’ recovery following the game.
With just 5:20 remaining in regulation, Timmins sustained the injury, which appeared to be non-contact. As players jostled for the puck along the boards in the neutral zone, a replay indicated that Timmins’ left skate caught a rut in the ice, causing his left leg to bend awkwardly. This unfortunate incident highlights the risks players face during high-intensity matches.
Timmins, 27, is in his first season with the Sabres after signing a two-year contract during free agency last summer. Throughout his NHL career, he has accumulated seven seasons of experience and has recorded six assists in 32 games this season. His absence is expected to extend through the NHL’s Olympic break in February, affecting the team’s defensive lineup significantly during this period.
In addition to Timmins’ injury, Ruff did not provide an immediate update on center Tyson Kozak, who also left the game in the second period due to an upper-body injury. The Sabres will need to assess Kozak’s condition as they prepare for their upcoming matches.
As the Sabres navigate this challenging time, the team will look to other players to step up in Timmins’ absence. The injury not only impacts the team’s performance but also raises questions about depth and resilience for the remainder of the season. The organization remains hopeful for a swift recovery for both Timmins and Kozak as they aim to maintain momentum in a competitive NHL landscape.