Sabres Open Camp, Numminen Out

The Sabres reported to training camp yesterday with the standard physicals and visits. Unfortunately it was revealed that Teppo Numminen will miss at least 4-6 weeks due to upcoming surgery to repair a faulty valve in his heart. Numminen says that the decision was made to move ahead with the surgery after a pre-camp visit to the Cleveland Clinic. Numminen has had to previous heart procedures done at the clinic. During interviews today Numminen stated he expected to have this surgery in 10-20 years but medical advancements made it better to have it right now. He also said he fully intends to return to the NHL and the Sabres.

Accompanying this announcement is news that the Sabres have suspended Numminen for an undetermined amount of time due to reporting to camp unfit to play. Numminen has stated on WGR55.com that he is not bothered by the suspension. In the old CBA the suspension was mandatory. the Sabres offered no explanation as to why the suspension was imposed.

In interviews afterward Darcy Regier stated that he has no intention of bringing in another defenseman as he is "comfortable" with the 6 defenseman the Sabres currently have and the cadre of kids in Rochester.