Eichel suffered a high ankle sprain at practice Wednesday after getting tangled up in front of the net, TSN's Bob McKenzie reports.

EDGE Analysis

The Sabres expect a minimum absence of four-to-six weeks, and perhaps maybe longer. This is a big blow to the Sabres, who also won't have Kyle Okposo (knee) for Thursday's opener against Montreal. Without Eichel, who scored 24 goals in his rookie season, the Sabres offense lacks serious punch. They will now likely slot Zemgus Girgensons or perhaps Sam Reinhart into the No. 2 slot behind Ryan O'Reilly. Adjust your fantasy lineups accordingly.