Zucker has been dealing with a nagging lower-body injury and is expected to miss multiple weeks. This comes at a terrible time, with the Penguins adding six players to the COVID-19 protocol list over the last two days. Luckily for them, it looks like both Bryan Rust and Evgeni Malkin are nearing returns, potentially as early as Wednesady.
Cozens and Mark Jankowski were placed on the COVID-19 protocol list on Sunday, joining Zemgus Girgensons, Jeff Skinner and Vinnie Hinostroza, who were on the list prior to the Christmas break. Cozens and Jankowski will likely be out until the middle of next week--the other three are eligible to come off earlier.
Both Malenstyn and Brett Leason were sent to the AHL on Monday, seemingly opening the door for Tom Wilson to return to the lineup on Tuesday. Michael Sgarbossa also tested out of COVID-19 protocol and will be available to play Tuesday.
Greenway's lower-body injury is considered minor and will not play Monday in Dallas. Kevin Fiala will move up into Greenway's spot with Joel Eriksson Ek and Marcus Foligno.
Tuch was acquired from the Golden Knight in the Jack Eichel trade and is set to make his Sabres debut vs. the Blue Jackets. Tuch, who scored 18 goals with 15 assists (33 points) in 55 games a season ago, is expected to skate on a line with Dylan Cozens.
With Carter Hart unavailable due to an undisclosed illness, Sandstrom will serve as Martin Jones' backup on Saturday. Sandstrom is 3-7-3 with a 3.08 GAA and .896 SV% in the AHL this season.
Sheahan would have been in line to play Saturday with Yanni Gourde going on the COVID-19 protocol list, but he joins Gourde. Alexander True has been called up from the AHL and figures to be in on the fourth line.
Reimer backed up Hill for the last three games but is still dealing with an illness and will be scratched on Tuesday night. Alexei Melnichuk has been called up to serve as Hill's backup vs. the Flames.
Byram continues to battle an issue with his head, so he was sent back to Colorado, presumably to receive more treatment. Kurtis MacDermid will play Monday with Byram still out.
