Sabres' Gionta 'cautiously optimistic' he'll play Monday

Buffalo Sabres captain Brian Gionta, who missed his team's first two games with a lower-body injury, said he's "cautiously optimistic" he'll make his season debut Monday against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

"I felt great," Gionta said following team practice Sunday. "Today was a good day, I progressed well so it felt good to get out there with the guys and we'll see how things respond tomorrow."

The 36-year-old was originally hurt during practice Tuesday. He's entering his 14th season in the NHL and upon his return, he's expected to join Evander Kane and rookie Jack Eichel on the the second line.