Suddenly crucial Buffalo Sabres player praised by position coach

Buffalo Sabres goaltender Colten Ellis earned praise from offseason goalie coach Scott Gouthro as he prepares for an expanded crease role. With starter Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen struggling early in the season and veteran backup Alex Lyon sidelined by injury, Ellis is expected to start against the Minnesota Wild. Gouthro highlighted Ellis' dedication, describing his commitment level as second to none during summer training sessions.

Ellis impressed during the preseason, stopping 41 of 44 shots across four appearances. Meanwhile, Lyon returned to practice for morning skate following an upper-body injury suffered in September, though head coach Lindy Ruff indicated there is currently no timetable for his return to game action.