Buffalo Sabres: Zach Bogosian ruled out against Canadiens

What has been suspected all week has finally been made official – Zach Bogosian will not suit up on opening night for the Buffalo Sabres, when they face the Montreal Canadiens.

All week long, Buffalo Sabres coach Phil Housley claimed he had no idea if Zach Bogosian would suit up for the regular season opener, versus the Montreal Canadiens. The blue liner hadn’t practiced since picking up an injury last Friday, in a preseason game against the New York Islanders.

Regardless of Housley’s official position, speculation was already circulating that Bogosian would not be ready in time, to face the Canadiens. And so it has come to pass.

As per a report from CBS Sports, it is now official the 27-year-old will not be in the lineup on Thursday night. At this stage, there has been no confirmation of how long he will be out, with what has only been described as a lower body injury.

This is understandably frustrating for the Buffalo Sabres, with the blue line still perceived as their biggest obstacle to making a genuine run at the playoffs this season. While they will probably lean heavily on Rasmus Ristolainen, Bogosian is also an important piece of the puzzle.

More from Buffalo Sabres

• Buffalo Sabres and Victor Olofsson making progress on contract extension
• Buffalo Sabres still need goaltender help despite re-signing Anderson
• Buffalo Sabres: Time to close book on the Jack Eichel chapter
• Buffalo Sabres receiving interest in members of defensive core
• Buffalo Sabres focused on youth during another disastrous season

In truth, the 2008 third overall draft pick had a disappointing 2016/17 campaign. Regardless, he is still an extremely talented defenseman with both excellent size and mobility, who is still capable of reaching greater heights.

As for Bogosian himself, you imagine he must be frustrated about his absence. Fair or not, he still faces questions about his inability to stay healthy, since being drafted by the then Atlanta Thrashers.

It has been eight seasons since the 2008 OHL First All-Star Team came even close to playing a full NHL season. You have to figure his lack of durability has at least partly compromised his ability to fulfill his potential.

No doubt, Bogosian is hoping he can take his game to another level under Housley. First things first though, he has to get — and then stay — healthy.

Next: Is Jack Eichel worth his new deal?

Given the concerns still surrounding the Buffalo Sabres defensively, how worried are you about Bogosian not playing on Thursday night? Or do you expect the team to be able to overcome his absence for a game or two? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.