Sabres C Connolly returns vs. Rangers

Jan 10, 2009 - 1:25 AM BUFFALO, New York (Ticker) -- The oft-injured Tim Connolly apparently is healthy again.

After missing 24 games with a broken rib, Connolly returned to the Buffalo Sabres' lineup Friday for their contest against the New York Rangers.

Drafted fifth overall by the New York Islanders in 1999, Connolly has been plagued with injuries since 2003-04, when he missed the entire season while recovering from a concussion. The 27-year-old center also was limited to just two contests in 2006-07 due to a similar head injury.

Last season, Connolly appeared in 48 games due to hip and abdominal injuries.

A native of Syracuse, New York, Connolly also was sidelined for 10 games earlier this season with a back ailment. In just six contests this campaign, the 6-1, 190-pounder has recorded two goals and five assists.

Connolly has registered 72 goals and 176 assists in 444 career games with the Islanders and Sabres.