BUFFALO, N.Y. — Sabres forward Jack Quinn will make his season debut earlier than expected.
“I’m excited to get back out there. It’s been a long wait,” he said. “I feel 100%.”
Head coach Don Granato said that Quinn "looks ready to go" after the young Buffalo forward took part in a full, physical practice on Monday.
The Sabres coach confirmed the roster change Tuesday morning in an interview. With defenseman Jacob Bryson clearing waivers, the team has sent him down to Rochester which creates a roster spot for Quinn.
Granato hopes that the move can serve as an opportunity for Bryson to get consistent playing time.
“That would be nice for him, to play some games,” Granato said. “It’s hard that he hasn’t played games. He’s done a good job to keep himself in great condition and work hard and be a positive member of the team without, unfortunately, getting the ice time.
“We’ve been healthier on the back end, which we weren’t a year ago – it seems to be the reverse this year with the forwards. So, tough situation for Jacob, but yes, the hope would be to get him some games.”
Quinn has yet to play in a game this season as he underwent surgery to repair an injured Achilles tendon he sustained during an offseason workout.
In 75 games last season, the forward had 14 goals and 23 assists for 37 points in his rookie year.
The Sabres host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday at 7 p.m.