A little less than two weeks after suffering a lower-body injury, Quebec goaltender Devon Levi is ready to return to action.
The 21-year-old returned to practice Tuesday for the first time since the Buffalo Sabers’ optional practice on Oct. 21.
“I took it one day at a time, trying things and wondering when I could come back. I spent a few days away from the rink to heal better and here I am. I feel comfortable on the ice. I’m really happy to be back,” Levi told NHL.com.
The Dollard-des-Ormeaux native will also have to convince head coach Don Granato to put him back in the lineup. The Northeastern University product’s rookie season didn’t start as expected. He posted a record of 1-3-0, a save percentage of .892 and a goals-against average of 3.26.
“I know that every time he overcomes an obstacle he will come back better,” said Granato confidently. […] He is someone for whom observation is to his advantage. He absorbs a lot of information and that makes him better. That’s why he’s way ahead of his age.”
It was Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen who took over starting goalkeeper responsibility in the absence of Levi and Eric Comrie. The Finn did well, especially fended off the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday and was able to keep the goal.
The Sabers’ next game is Wednesday against the Flyers in Philadelphia.
“Let’s see what happens. I’m ready like I’m going to play. It’s the coaches’ decision, but I’ll be ready,” Levi said.