Skinner scored a career-high 40 goals last season, but through 39 games this year, his goal total stands at 11. His last tally came on Dec. 2 in the team's 7-1 win over the New Jersey Devils. At the time of the injury, he hadn't scored in 11 games.
However, he had been generating scoring chances for both himself and his linemates, which is a reason for optimism.
"Obviously during the season, you go through stretches where you're feeling better than others. I felt like I was playing well. I thought our line was clicking a little bit more," Skinner said. "It's unfortunate, but at the same time, I think the guys have done a great job. I've been watching and it's time for us to make a push now."
Even though the production wasn't there, Sabres coach Ralph Krueger liked what he was seeing from Skinner.
"There were four, five games at the end where we really felt he was finding his rhythm and the goals were just going to come. That was the final piece that was missing," Krueger said. "As a result, the injury at that time was very disappointing because it like he was in that space. I think he's had some good time here to observe what the game is that we're playing and need to play.
"His re-entry will be exciting for us. It gives us more depth in scoring and more offensive punch. We look forward to him just stepping right back in where he left off."
Buffalo's next game is Tuesday night when they host the Ottawa Senators at KeyBank Center. Faceoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. with pregame coverage on MSG starting at 6:30. Tickets are on sale now.
