Buffalo Sabres center Sam Carrick is on track to return for the team's second-round playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens after he resumed practicing on Tuesday. Coach Lindy Ruff indicated that Carrick's return is imminent, stating, "Once you're cleared to practice, you're within days of playing." Carrick had been sidelined since March 31 due to a left arm injury sustained during a fight with New York Islanders captain Anders Lee. He missed the final seven games of the regular season and the Sabres' first-round series win over the Boston Bruins. The Sabres acquired Carrick in a trade with the New York Rangers on March 5, and he quickly became an essential part of the team's fourth line, particularly in faceoff situations. His return is seen as a boost for a Sabres team that has struggled in faceoff performance, ranking last among playoff teams with a win rate of 43.8%. Game 1 against the Canadiens is scheduled for Wednesday night, followed by Game 2 on Friday. Notably, rookie center Noah Ostlund will not be available for Round 2 due to a lower leg injury.