James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Mikhail Grigorenko’s first NHL season might not be over after all. Tonight the Quebec Ramparts face elimination from the playoffs – down three games to one to Rouyn-Noranda in the second round – the Ramparts will need to win tonight, and both games next week to move on. The winner of this series will play Halifax in the semi-finals.

It doesn’t mean the end of the line for Grigorenko, who could be called back up to the Buffalo Sabres to finish out the remaining games in the regular season. Grigorenko could join the team for the weekends afternoon contests.

Given the fact that the Buffalo Sabres playoff hopes have dwindled, the Sabres could see how much confidence the young center has regained by once again returning to a lineup where he is the man, getting more than 5-6 minutes of ice time each game.

Interim head coach Ron Rolston could use Mikhail Grigorenko as much or as little as he needs though the final games of the season – and could be an offensive help for the Rochester Americans in the Calder Cup playoffs – if the Rochester Americans can hold on to a playoff spot in the final days of the season.

What Do You Do With Mikhail Grigorenko Straight to Rochester - keep the kids confidence up.

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