The Buffalo Sabres have called up rookie defenseman Dennis Persson from their Portland affiliate Saturday morning and will make him available for Game 2 at 5 P.M. against the Flyers.
The move was made necessary after Shaone Morrisonn has been ruled out for Game 2 and is day-to-day with an undisclosed injury.
Persson is a former 24th overall pick the the 2006 Entry Draft and will see the first NHL action of his career tonight if he dresses. Throughout the 64 games Persson has played for Portland this season he is a +5 and has scored 17 points (4 G 13 A).
The decision to play Persson will be based on the status of the currently injured Andrej Sekera who will be a game time decision. Lindy Ruff says Sekera is “getting better” and will not disclose if he will be ready to play come gametime. If Sekera cannot make it, Persson will be the backup plan.
Persson was a highly touted rookie back in ’06 when the Sabres took him with their first round pick. He has decent size and is more well known for his heavy shot, puck movement and strong skating ability.
Philadelphia’s Chris Pronger has also been reported out for Game 2.