Sabres' Jeff Skinner, Zemgus Girgensons added to COVID protocol

The Buffalo Sabres had their games postponed this week and Monday added Vinnie Hinostroza to the COVID protocol. He wasn’t alone for very long, as both Jeff Skinner and Zemgus Girgensons were added Tuesday. The Sabres won’t play again until Monday but now could be without all three, should they have to face the full 10-day period that comes with a positive, symptomatic case.

Skinner has found part of himself again this season, getting back on the scoresheet fairly regularly and playing a big role on the power play. His nine goals and 17 points through 30 games have already eclipsed both marks he posted in 53 games last season, when he fell completely out of favor with the coaching staff and even found himself in the press box on occasion.

Now back in the mix as a top-six option (and at least not a total anchor contract-wise), losing Skinner would actually be a big blow for the Sabres. If he misses 10 days, it would mean at least three games on the sideline.

Girgensons meanwhile is once again playing his role as a middle-six player for the Sabres, lining up at center or the wing and providing some reliability on defense. He has six goals and 11 points in 30 games as well, a pace that actually would have him close to matching previous career highs if he keeps it up. For now, that will have to wait as he’ll also miss the next few games if held out 10 days.