Kulikov registered a game-winning assist, two PIM and four hits during Tuesday's 4-3 win over Detroit.

EDGE Analysis

Through 19 games, Kulikov had failed to reach the scoresheet, but that finally changed Tuesday. The 26-year-old has struggled with a back injury and it's shown, as the blueliner sits at a minus-10 rating in limited action.

Kulikov (back) will return to the Sabres' lineup for Friday's matchup with the Capitals, Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News reports.

EDGE Analysis

Kulikov's return to the lineup will bolster Buffalo's depth at defense, but won't do much for fantasy owners. The 26-year-old blueliner has failed to tally a single point while registering a minus-4 rating over 12 games with the Sabres this season, and isn't a practical option in the majority of fantasy formats.

Kulikov (back) was practicing with the team Tuesday.

EDGE Analysis

Kulikov has missed the past 13 games but resumed practice Sunday and took part in another skate Tuesday. His back injury was considered day-to-day at first and was downgraded to week-to-week later, but taking part in regular practices could signal that he's ready to return very soon. Acquired in a trade with Florida, Kulikov has yet to register a point in a Sabres uniform. The steady defender has very little offensive upside with just six shots in 12 games, but is also trusted in his own zone, averaging 22:35 TOI per game. His return should provide the Sabres a boost on defense, though there is still no date set for his return.

Kulikov (back) is once again showing on injured reserve, per the NHL's official media site.

EDGE Analysis

The Sabres traded for Kulikov during the 2016 NHL Draft, shipping fellow defenseman Mark Pysyk to Florida in the process. Unfortunately, between the lingering back injury and poor play -- zero points, minus-4 rating in 12 games -- on the part of Kulikov, Buffalo probably wants a do-over.

Kulikov (back) will be unavailable for Tuesday's outing against Edmonton, Paul Hamilton of WGR Sports Radio 550 reports.

EDGE Analysis

After originally being classified as doubtful, Kulikov has been ruled out versus the Oilers. The 26-year-old will have missed 13 contests by the time Friday's matchup with Washington rolls around. Even when in the lineup, the defenseman has yet to record a point this season, so fantasy owners may want to hold off on picking him up off their waiver wire.

Kulikov (back) is doubtful for Tuesday's game and unavailable Monday, Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News reports.

EDGE Analysis

The defenseman has missed the last 11 games with a back injury and seems on the cusp of returning. However, even once he's back to full health, he won't be much of a fantasy value considering he's pointless in 12 games this season. He will likely return to one of the top defensive pairings, causing ripple effects throughout the current starting pairs.

Kulikov practiced Sunday for the first time since sustaining a back injury in early November.

EDGE Analysis

While there's been no word so far on if Kulikov will suit up for Monday's game in Washington, it's encouraging to see him back at practice and conventional wisdom says that he could see game action this week. The 26-year-old blueliner has not posted any points in the 12 games he's played this season, but the Sabres will gladly welcome back his defensive-minded play that includes a healthy dose of hits and blocked shots.

Kulikov (back) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game, as coach Dan Blysma told The Buffalo News, "I'd like to say there was an update on him. We've been on day-to-day but it's more like a week-to-week time frame right now."

EDGE Analysis

Kulikov was not listed on IR as of Wednesday afternoon, but it seems like he's heading in that direction based on the most recent comments from the bench boss. Either way, Taylor Fedun figures to continue rounding out the third defensive pair alongside Justin Falk with Kulikov ailing.

Kulikov (back) is inactive for Saturday's home matchup with the Penguins.

EDGE Analysis

Kulikov has been battling a back ailment since the preseason and it appears it could require some time to heal as he'll miss his fifth consecutive game as a result of it. His absence should have little effect on fantasy owners as the 26-year-old blueliner has yet to tally a point on the 2016-17 season.

Kulikov's previously undisclosed ailment appears to be the same back injury he had during preseason, Bill Hoppe of the Times Herald reports.

EDGE Analysis

Coach Dan Bylsma indicated that Kulikov was still considered day-to-day but was doubtful against Pittsburgh on Saturday. If the blueliner is unable to give it a go, Taylor Fedun will likely continue to fill in for Kulikov in the Sabres' depth chart.