It looks like Buffalo Sabres fans will have to wait a few extra weeks to see Robin Lehner strap on the pads.
In a bit of a surprising move, Lehner has informed Team Sweden that he won't be participating in the upcoming World Cup of Hockey. Former Sabres goalie Jhonas Enroth, who just signed with Toronto earlier this week, will be Lehner's replacement.
Lehner getting yanked from the Team Sweden roster isn't a big deal. I fully expect he'll be ready Oct 13th. That's all that matters #Sabres
— Matthew Bové (@Matt_Bove) August 26, 2016
Lehner's first season in Buffalo was cut short by an ankle injury. Last season, Lehner played in only 21 games. He was originally hurt during the Sabres home opener against Ottawa, his former team. In the past Lehner has had issues with concussions -- however, those issues didn't resurface last season.
While at first glance this decision may seem like a step in the wrong direction, it's more than likely a precautionary move for the Sabres goaltender. Pulling out of the tournament gives Lehner extra time to rehab and ensure he's ready for the Sabres opener against Montreal on October 13.
Here's video a goalie dad friend sent me of Lehner working @HARBORCTR yesterday. In case 'injured' scared you. pic.twitter.com/Jk49plLqpf
— Christopher Parker (@Bulldogwgr) August 26, 2016
Regardless of the decision, Lehner probably wouldn't have gotten much, if any, action during the World Cup of Hockey. If he stayed on the roster he would've played behind New York Ranger goaltender Henrik Lundqvist and Jacob Markstrom of the Vancouver Canucks.
