Eastern Conference News: Bruins, Sabres, Jackets, Red Wings, Panthers, Canadiens, Islanders, Lightning, Leafs and Playoff Races
Shea Weber likely out closer to four months than six.
On the Boston Bruins …

Kevin Paul Dupont: Coach Bruce Cassidy said that Jake DeBrusk is now skating with Zdeno Chara and Charlie McAvoy. They are not with the team in Winnipeg.

On the Buffalo Sabres …

Bob McKenzie: The Sabres have signed Casey Mittelstadt to an entry-level deal and he’s expected to join the team this week.

Paul Hamilton: GM Jason Botterill expects Mittelstadt to play on Thursday and they are hoping that he’ll play for Team USA for the World Championships.

On the Columbus Blue Jackets …

Dave Maetzold: Forward Nick Foligno will be out for two to four weeks with a lower-body injury. The Blue Jackets have recalled Alex Broadhurst.

Columbus Blue Jackets: The Blue Jackets have signed College free agent Eric Robinson and he is expected to join the team in Edmonton.

On the Detroit Red Wings …

Ansar Khan: The Red Wings recalled Joe Hicketts with their fourth recall after the deadline. All recalls must be on an emergency basis now.

On the Florida Panthers …

Denver Hockey: The Panthers have signed Henrik Borgstrom to a three-year entry-level deal.

On the Montreal Canadiens …

Eric Engels: Coach Claude Julien said that it’s doubtful that Max Pacioretty will return to the lineup before the end of the season. Defensemen David Schlemko and Rinat Valiev could return.

Eric Engels of Sportsnet: Defenseman Shea Weber is expected to be out for four to six months after surgery on his left foot to repair tendons. A source is saying they expect it to be closer to four months than six months.

“It could take four-to-five months,” said one source. “But, if all goes well, it should be closer to four. That’s why the Canadiens are 100 per cent certain he will be ready and in top shape for the start of next training camp.”

On the New York Islanders …

Cory Wright: Forward Casey Cizikas will be out tonight. Defenseman Scott Mayfield could return tonight. If Mayfield can’t go tonight, he should be good for the weekend.

On the Tampa Bay Lightning …

Lightning Insider: Forward Adam Erne left last night’s game early with a lower-body injury.

On the Toronto Maple Leafs …

Chris Johnson: Forward Leo Komarov took part in the Leafs optional skate yesterday and could be close to being able to return to the lineup.