NHL Hockey Player News
Smith missed the first three games of the season with an undisclosed injury that he suffered in training camp but will play Saturday vs. the Sabres. Smith, who had 23 points (2G / 21A) in 48 games last season, will replace Christian Jaros in the lineup and skate on pairing with Damon Severson.
Wheeler will miss his third consecutive game due to COVID-19 protocol. Andrew Copp has filled in admirably in Wheeler's absence, so expect him to continue to be utilized in a top-6 role.
Scheifele remains in COVID-19 protocol and will miss his second straight game. Paul Stastny and Pierre-Luc Dubois will continue to operate as the team's top-2 centres while Scheifele is out.
Pinto will miss the remaining two games on the Senators' current homestand and then is not expected to travel with the team on their upcoming three-game road trip. With Pinto out, Nick Paul is expected to shift to centre on the Senators' second line.