Sabres' Vanek doubtful for Game 3

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BUFFALO, N.Y., April 18 (UPI) -- Buffalo forward Thomas Vanek probably won't play in Game 3 of the Sabres' Eastern Conference quarterfinal series against Boston, the team said Sunday.

Head Coach Lindy Ruff told reporters that while the Sabres' leading scorer is doubtful for Monday's contest in Boston with an unspecified lower body injury, he would still go with the team on the road trip.

Ruff added that Vanek's injury wasn't "severe."

The high-scoring forward left during the first period of Saturday's loss to Boston after being hit in the leg with a stick wielded from behind by the Bruins' Johnny Boychuk. During the play, both players slid into the endboards and afterwards Vanek was removed, appearing to favor his left leg.

Buffalo's loss allowed Boston to even the first-round series at a game apiece.

Vanek led the Sabres with 28 goals this season and scored in their 2-1 victory over the Bruins in Game 1.