Tage Thompson Returns to Sabres' Lineup Ahead of Schedule

Thompson's return provides a much-needed boost for the Sabres, who have lost three straight and four of five games.

Tage Thompson, the top-line center for the Buffalo Sabres, is returning to the lineup ahead of schedule for their game against the Detroit Red Wings.
Thompson, who led the Sabres in scoring for the past two seasons, was projected to miss 4-6 weeks after blocking a shot with his left arm in a game against Boston on Nov. 14, but he missed just nine games over the past three weeks.
Thompson's return coincides with the loss of forward Alex Tuch, who is expected to miss seven to 10 days after a lower-body injury in the 2-1 loss to Nashville on Sunday.
The Sabres will also be without goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen on Tuesday because of an illness. Coach Don Granato said Eric Comrie would start against Detroit and Devon Levi will be recalled from AHL Rochester.
For Detroit, newly signed veteran forward Patrick Kane won’t be making his debut against his hometown Sabres. Kane, who has been out since having hip surgery in June, is eyeing to play later this week when the Red Wings return home to play San Jose on Thursday and Ottawa on Saturday.