OTTAWA - Ottawa winger Bobby Ryan says he is feeling better than expected a day after leaving the Senators' game against Columbus with an apparent injury.
Ryan was helped off the ice Thursday night after being hit from behind by the Blue Jackets' David Savard late in the third period of the Senators' 3-0 win. He admitted he was feeling some soreness and said he is questionable for Saturday's game against the Philadelphia Flyers, but doesn't anticipate being out long-term.
"I'm a little sore, but I think we were pleasantly surprised with where I was (Friday) compared to (Thursday night), so those are positive signs at least," Ryan said.
"Could I play Saturday? Probably. We're going to have a conversation Saturday morning before the pre-game skate, to see if I can go out there with full range of motion and feel comfortable and then we'll make a decision."
Many anticipated Ryan would be out indefinitely considering how severe the hit looked.
"After we left the ice and let it settle for 15 minutes it kind of settled and calmed down," said Ryan, who is on a seven-game point streak (three goals, five assists). "We felt better about it. (Friday) was much more positive than we thought."
Shane Prince will be inserted into the lineup Saturday if Ryan is unable to play.
The news isn't as good regarding defenceman Patrick Wiercioch.
Wiercioch left the game early in the second period with a suspected concussion after being hit by Columbus captain Nick Foligno.
Defenceman Jared Cowen will return to the lineup Saturday after being a healthy scratch Thursday night.
The Senators wrap up a five-game homestand Saturday before heading out on the road for a three-game road trip.
Craig Anderson will get the start in goal against the Flyers.
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