Philip Varone skated on the Sabres' top line Tuesday against Tampa Bay.

Varone skated on the Sabres' top line Tuesday against Tampa Bay.

Analysis:

Varone played 19:01, a season-high, although he didn't register a point in the 3-0 shutout loss. Varone was AHL Rochester's leading scorer when he was called up and after toiling in the minors for the past two years, his hard work has paid off. He registered two shots on net and will continue to serve as the team's No. 1 centerman with Zemgus Girgensons (fractured ankle) sidelined. The Sabres don't score much but if they do, Varone should be in line for some points. He has two goals in 10 NHL games this season.