The Penguins won in Evgeni Malkin's return from a sinus infection and knee troubles, but the 3-2 victory was spoiled by Malkin's departure early in the second period with what appears to be more knee problems, as Tyler Myers landed on Malkin. The exact extent and nature of the injury haven't yet been reported, but Malkin only ended up playing six minutes Friday night.
Paul Gaustad and Mike Grier scored first-period goals for the Sabres, who jumped out to a 2-0 lead. The Penguins fought back in the second period, with goals by Dustin Jeffrey, Tyler Kennedy and Matt Cooke. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 27 shots, 13 of them in a third period that featured no scoring.
The Pens (34-15-4) continue to win despite injury issues for Malkin and fellow centers Sidney Crosby and Mark Letestu. They travel to Washington for a rematch of the Winter Classic against the Capitals on Sunday.