"It is not difficult for Buffalo coach Lindy Ruff to recall the prowess of the Penguins when their top three centers are playing.

"I don't forget," he said. "I know what they're like."

That's more because of impact than recent memory.

Center Evgeni Malkin sat out the game Saturday night at Consol Energy Center against the Sabres. It was the third game in the past four he has missed because of soreness in his surgically repaired right knee. He had two assists Thursday in the Penguins' overtime loss against Washington but has not been on the ice since.

Penguins coach Dan Byslma indicated the absence against Buffalo was precautionary."