BUFFALO, N.Y. - Jack Eichel didn’t make it to Thursday’s optional morning skate, and he'll miss each of the Sabres next two games. Eichel aggravated an upper-body injury during Monday's game against the Islanders; the Sabres are using a cautious approach with their franchise center.

"Obviously, Jack's been a big part of our team," says head coach Phil Housley. "It's a day-to-day situation, which is encouraging. We want to be cautious with it. There's a lot of hockey to be played. We're gonna re-evaluate it early next week and see where it goes from there."

With Eichel on the shelf, Evan Rodrigues takes his usual spot next to Jeff Skinner and Sam Reinhart. Rodrigues plans on making a few small adjustments as he moves to the top line.

"It's still the same game. Maybe focus more on defense," he says. "Maybe better offensive matchups. Other than that, it's still hockey. Still the same game I've played all year. Just gonna go out there and play my game."

Rodrigues has moved up and down the Sabres lineup this season, playing wing and center on the team's second, third and fourth lines while also enduring healthy scratches. As long as Eichel remains injured, Rodrigues will have a huge opportunity with talented linemates.