Sabres change forward lines before visit to Sharks

The Buffalo Sabres tried new forward combinations at Monday’s practice in San Jose ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Sharks. Zach Benson skated alongside Tage Thompson and Konsta Helenius, while Josh Doan moved onto Noah Ostlund’s left wing.

Coach Lindy Ruff said he wanted to distribute scoring across more lines. The changes separated Benson from Ostlund and Jack Quinn, a group the club described as its most productive line this season.

Ruff also said Buffalo needed to improve its defensive play and make opponents work harder for their opportunities. The Sabres are coming off Saturday’s 4-3 overtime loss in Washington.

Tuesday’s game against San Jose is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. EDT and will air nationally on ESPN.

San Jose returns home after earning seven points on a six-game trip. Five of the Sharks’ six wins have come after regulation; Buffalo’s preview lists San Jose at 5-1 in overtime and shootout games.