Head Coach Lindy Ruff said he hopes the winger can provide the offensive spark they need, as the Sabres have scored only one goal in their last two outings combined.
 
Gerbe was recalled twice to Buffalo in the 2008-09 campaign, and finished with one assist in 10 games. This season, the winger has 20 points (5+15) in 23 games with the AHL Portland Pirates.

“I think he’s had a better two-way game [this season],” Ruff said. “But I don’t think that its any secret; If he’s going to stick in the NHL he’s going to be a goal scorer.”

“Five goals, it’s not where I want to be,” Gerbe agreed. “But again I have to shoot the puck more.

“If you look around the League, all the top goal scorers have the most shots in the League… Shooting the puck, you get bounces. It’s a funny game. You get skates, shin pads, the puck goes in when you shoot and can turn players around.”
 
Gerbe practiced alongside Tim Kennedy and Drew Stafford during the morning skate, but said he was unsure as to where he would fit in the lineup as the practice was optional for players.

Andrej Sekera participated and Ruff said he should be able to play in tonight’s contest, but will dress an extra defenseman during warm-ups - likely Nathan Paetsch - as a precaution.