Michal Neuvirth (lower body) appears to be healthy and is practicing ahead of Thursday's season opener against the Lightning, Tim Panaccio of Comcast Sportsnet reports.

Neuvirth (lower body) appears to be healthy and is practicing ahead of Thursday's season opener against the Lightning, Tim Panaccio of Comcast Sportsnet reports.

Analysis:

Neuvirth was banged up during the preseason and dealing with general soreness, but should be ready to be Steve Mason's backup for the start of the season. Neuvirth struggled for the Sabres last season and then with the Islanders after coming over at the deadline, posting a 7-20-4 record with a 2.98 goals against average and a .914 save percentage.