Sabres Provide Injury Updates Ahead of Leafs Clash

Lindy Ruff announces key players' status as Buffalo looks to bounce back from rare home loss.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 10:53pm

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The Buffalo Sabres, currently leading the Atlantic Division, are preparing to host the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday. Ahead of the game, head coach Lindy Ruff provided updates on the injury status of several key players, including Mattias Samuelsson, Tanner Pearson, and Alex Tuch.

Why it matters

The Sabres are in a tight race atop the Atlantic Division, so their health and lineup decisions will be crucial as they look to bounce back from a rare home loss to the Washington Capitals. The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, will be without their star player Auston Matthews, who suffered a season-ending injury.

The details

Ruff revealed that defenseman Mattias Samuelsson is doubtful for the game, while forward Tanner Pearson appears to be out. However, high-scoring winger Alex Tuch is expected to be in the lineup. The Sabres have been getting production from multiple lines, led by Tage Thompson's 34 goals and 70 points, as well as strong contributions from Rasmus Dahlin and Tuch.

  • The Sabres host the Maple Leafs on Saturday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Lindy Ruff

Head coach of the Buffalo Sabres.

Mattias Samuelsson

Defenseman for the Buffalo Sabres.

Tanner Pearson

Forward for the Buffalo Sabres.

Alex Tuch

Forward for the Buffalo Sabres.

Tage Thompson

Forward for the Buffalo Sabres, leading the team with 34 goals and 70 points.

Rasmus Dahlin

Defenseman for the Buffalo Sabres, second on the team in scoring with 13 goals and 47 assists for 60 points.

Auston Matthews

Captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, whose season has ended due to a torn MCL.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.