Valeri Nichushkin was injured against the Anaheim Ducks early in the third period; we got some updates from head coach Jared Bednar, but his timeline is up in the air
Head Coach Jared Bednar said during today’s practice that Valeri Nichushkin is dealing with a lower-body injury and will miss some time; just how much is unknown.
His injury occurred late in the third period against the Anaheim Ducks, roughly around the 4:15 mark of the period. He has a well-documented history of lower-body injuries, so we hope it’s nothing too major that would cause him to miss a significant chunk of the season.
Joel Kiviranta also went down early in the season with a lower-body injury, precisely October 18, and has started to resume skating during today’s practice as well. Although we can’t confirm it was a concussion since we don’t know exactly what both dealt with and the severity of each issue. However, we can make a rough estimate that if it is serious but not overly severe, Nichushkin could be out for roughly 3-4 weeks.
It’s another injury the Avalanche have been dealt with, as Nichuskin’s play as of recently has really picked up. While his goal-scoring has been down to start the season, his playmaking has been excellent, with four assists over the last five games.
It’s highly unlikely he plays tonight against the Buffalo Sabres, so someone from the Eagles will be called up tonight to fill out the roster unless the Avalanche decides to run 11 forward and seven defenseman. MacKenzie Blackwood is confirmed to start tonight as well.
“Buffalo’s offense is sputtering, and some fans are wondering if Brian Daboll could be the cure for what ails them.”
The Buffalo Bills (6-3) have been struggling offensively, with their most recent lackluster performance coming in a 30-13 defeat to the Miami Dolphins. Despite facing one of the league’s worst defenses, Buffalo’s receivers failed to create any separation, and the offense was unable to get anything going through the first three quarters. It’s clear that the Bills’ offensive issues are becoming a growing concern.
However, today’s Buffalo Rumblings report quashed any hopes for those Bills fans calling for a change at offensive coordinator. Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Joe Brady would remain the team’s offensive coordinator through the end of the 2025 NFL season. Despite speculation that former offensive coordinator Brian Daboll could be brought back to help turn things around, McDermott swiftly dismissed the idea.
McDermott Shoots Down Daboll Return
When Daboll was fired as head coach of the New York Giants, rumors swirled about the possibility of a reunion with quarterback Josh Allen in Buffalo. McDermott wasted no time in shutting down those rumors, stating that he has confidence in Joe Brady and has no intention of bringing Daboll back to Buffalo.
“At this time, that is not something we are considering,” McDermott said when asked about the possibility of Daboll returning to Western New York.
The question remains: could Daboll have been the solution to Buffalo’s offensive struggles, or is the real issue something deeper? The Bills started the season strong but have since been cold, particularly in their loss to the Dolphins.
Dalton Kincaid’s Injury Puts More Pressure on Offense
Adding to Buffalo’s woes, tight end Dalton Kincaid, who has been one of Josh Allen’s most reliable targets this season, has been officially labeled “week-to-week” after suffering a hamstring injury in the Dolphins’ loss. Kincaid had been a standout, recording 29 catches for 448 yards and four touchdowns—leading the team in both receiving yards and touchdowns this year. His absence could further strain the already struggling offense.
As the Bills continue to deal with a variety of injuries, including to key players like Kincaid, the offense will need to find a way to regain its early-season form. While McDermott has expressed confidence in his current coaching staff, fans are left to wonder if a change in offensive philosophy or leadership might be what’s needed to reignite Buffalo’s high-powered attack.
More Updates on Bills’ Injuries and Roster Moves
As the Bills face a series of injuries, including to key offensive players, the team is also adding new faces to the practice squad. Stay tuned for updates as Buffalo looks to address its depth and find solutions to its current offensive struggles.