"We're really sad about it. [Sobotka] was an amazing leader in how we want to play here. He was an example on video over and over again of playing the right way without the puck. We'll tap into him to help mentor some of the younger players here as he's injured and use his wealth of experience in that way."
Sobotka has three points (one goal, two assists) in 16 games this season. A fourth-round pick (No. 106) of the Boston Bruins in the 2005 NHL Draft, he has 171 points (53 goals, 118 assists) in 548 NHL games through 11 seasons with the Bruins, St. Louis Blues and Sabres.
The Sabres are also without forward Evan Rodrigues, who is week to week with a lower-body injury sustained in a 5-2 win at the Florida Panthers on Sunday. Forward Kyle Okposo (concussion) and center Tage Thompson (upper body) are also out long-term.
"It's frustrating. You don't want to lose guys to injury at all," captain Jack Eichel said. "It's part of this game, it's a physical game, it's a long grueling season, and it takes a toll on people. We're not the only team that's dealing with injuries. We've just got to find a way to get through it."
The Sabres (11-10-3) host the Calgary Flames at KeyBank Center on Wednesday (7 p.m. ET; MSG-B, SNW, NHL.TV).