On the Beat: Auld news in Ottawa

What team beat writers are saying this afternoon:

• Thrashers netminder Kari Lehtonen has a stiff back. It can be argued he is their most important player, so this is about the last thing they need.
• Here were the Sabres’ lines at practice today.  Tim Connolly has a groin problem.
• Rostislav Klesla will miss tonight’s game for Columbus with a wrist injury.  Injury doesn’t seem serious.
• Is Chris Higgins back on the Saku Koivu and Alex Tanguay line for next game?  Looks that way.
• With the way Alex Auld has been playing in Ottawa, it is just a matter of time before he’s named the number one netminder.  He deserves it right now.
• Lightning defenseman Janne Niskala has headed back to Europe.  He wasn’t happy with his playing time.