McCabe underwent surgery on his injured thumb Thursday, and he's facing a return timetable of 3-to-4 weeks.

EDGE Analysis

It wouldn't be the least bit surprising to see McCabe wind up on injured reserve, and this puts the Sabres in a tough spot since the Wisconsin native has been taking roughly 53 percent of his even-strength shifts in the attacking zone. Buffalo has Justin Falk on the active roster as a potential replacement for McCabe, but it's worth noting that it would have the requisite number of defensemen to field a lineup even if Falk wasn't in the picture.

McCabe is set to be evaluated for an upper-body injury Wednesday against the Ducks.

EDGE Analysis

McCabe was elbowed in the face by Ryan Getzlaf and ended up recording only 8:48 of ice time. He still managed three blocked shots before departing, though, which is perhaps how he best earns his paychecks given a limited offensive skill set otherwise.

McCabe (undisclosed) left Tuesday's game against the Ducks and won't return, Paul Hamilton of WGR Sports Radio 550 reports.

EDGE Analysis

McCabe played just 22 seconds in the second period before being elbowed by Anaheim's Ryan Getzlaf, forcing him to leave the game. The Wisconsin native has one goal and nine PIM in the last five games, and if this injury is long term, it'll leave gaping holes on the blue line and power play. Details about the nature and severity of this injury are expected to emerge after the game.

McCabe added three shots on goal and four hits Thursday against Minnesota in a 6-2 loss.

EDGE Analysis

McCabe and Marco Scandella were the only Sabres defensemen who didn't finish with a negative plus-minus rating. The former University of Wisconsin captain is on pace for another 20-point season, and already shows he's capable of being a second-pair defenseman. He has some upside, but not enough to negate playing on the league's worst offensive team.

McCabe recorded a goal and two assists during Friday's 5-4 overtime loss to Carolina.

EDGE Analysis

The 24-year-old blueliner improved to two goals and seven assists with Friday's season-high, three-point showing. McCabe is in line to reach the 20-point benchmark for the second consecutive season, but his fantasy value remains limited to cavernous settings.

McCabe scored his first goal of the season, added a helper, dished out four hits and blocked five shots in Tuesday's win over the Avalanche.

EDGE Analysis

McCabe doesn't contribute much in terms of offense, but fantasy goers couldn't have asked for a much-better fantasy performance. With just six points and a minus-9 rating in 28 games, the second-pairing blueliner still isn't worth owning in most formats. His defensive stats make him valuable in some specialty leagues, but steer clear if you need offensive production.

McCabe fired off three shots on goal while notching one hit in Saturday's 2-1 overtime loss to Montreal.

EDGE Analysis

The Wisconsin native has seen his role increased over the last 10 games, as he's been averaging 20:25 of ice time compared to only 17:18 in his first seven games. McCabe's also recorded three points in that span, and after he notched 20 points last season, a similar output seems likely.

McCabe (shoulder) told reporters he was back to 100 percent and was ready for Thursday's matchup against Montreal, Paul Hamilton of WGR Sports Radio 550 reports.

EDGE Analysis

McCabe isn't exactly an offensive powerhouse -- just 20 points in 76 outings last year -- but his ability to move the puck and physical style of play make him a critical piece of the Sabres' blue line. With the 23-year-old ready to suit up, either Josh Gorges or Victor Antipin will likely end up watching from the press box.

McCabe (shoulder) returned to practice Tuesday.

EDGE Analysis

While the team has given no further indication as to if McCabe will be able to suit up for Buffalo's opening game against Montreal, the defenseman's participation in morning skate serves as an excellent sign that he's at least trending in the right direction. Expect an update from the Sabres closer to Thursday's showdown.

McCabe (shoulder) did not partake in Monday's skate and he's questionable for the season opener on Oct. 5 against Montreal.

EDGE Analysis

McCabe continues to be week-to-week with his injury, but he's not expected to be out for very long. There's a slight chance he is available Thursday, but it's a long season and there's no need to rush things. It is slightly concerning, however, that Buffalo's improved depth on defense is already down three players in McCabe, Zach Bogosian (lower body), and Marco Scandella (hip). Victor Antipin, Justin Falk, and Matt Tennyson may get a chance to dress when Buffalo opens the season against Montreal. Despite his top-four potential, McCabe has little value in most fantasy leagues.