Sabres coach Ruff returns against Devils after missing 3 games with broken ribs

BUFFALO, N.Y. - Buffalo Sabres coach Lindy Ruff is back behind the bench for the first time in a week since breaking three ribs during a collision with a player in practice.

Saying he intended to wear a flak jacket to protect his sore ribs, Ruff took his familiar place behind the bench for Buffalo's home game against the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday. Ruff had spent the team's three previous games watching from the press box and consulting with his assistants on the bench via a headset.

Ruff says he expects to require help from his assistants in delivering his message on the bench because the injury prevents him from raising his voice.