Sabres Coach Ruff breaks ribs in practice

BUFFALO, N.Y. - Sabres Coach Lindy Ruff has three broken ribs after being upended by defenseman Jordan Leopold in practice yesterday.

In providing the update, the Sabres announced that Ruff is expected to be back for practice today to "resume his coaching responsibilities."

Ruff was hurt during a puck-chase drill as Leopold was trying to cut off forward Ville Leino. Ruff was standing in the middle of the ice looking the other way when Leopold lost his footing and went sliding head first and crashed into the back of his coach's skates.

Ruff fell backward and landed on his right side with a heavy thud, and was fortunate to not hit his head. Witnesses said they heard Ruff yell out in pain.