‘McKee’s strep infection developed when bacteria came into contact with a gash caused by a blocked shot he took in the second round against the Ottawa Senators. The cut didn’t require stitches, but it wouldn’t close because pucks repeatedly struck the area in practices and games. Strep infections of the skin are rare, but cases involving athletes usually are the result of old, sweaty equipment. Buffalo’s longest-tenured player still uses pads from his junior days. His shin guards are relics.’