Thursday, December 16, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
Vanek-meter
Thomas Vanek is like the Sabres in general in that he is prone to stretches of invisibility and stretches of domination.
In the last month, the Sabres have played 14 games. Vanek has 9 goals and 8 assists in those 14 games.
It's safe to say that the old Vanek-Meter is in the "He's on Fire" area right now.
In the last month, the Sabres have played 14 games. Vanek has 9 goals and 8 assists in those 14 games.
It's safe to say that the old Vanek-Meter is in the "He's on Fire" area right now.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
RIP Jim Kelley and a new Sabres owner coming soon?????
Sabres Edge Blog
Buffalo News
SportsNet.ca bio
I always liked Jim Kelley when he was the hockey writer at The Buffalo News.
And his Sharpshooters radio shows with Mike Robitaille on WGR were wildly entertaining and informative as well.
It was sad to read that he has passed on.
Terrence Pegula really close to buying the Sabres?
Buffalo News
The Hockey News
B. Thomas Golisano may be on the verge of selling the Sabres to Terrence Pegula.
I think it would be cool if the Sabres were owned by someone who loves hockey, was his kid's youth hockey coach once upon a time, and cut a huge check to get Penn State's men's & women's ice hockey programs to Division 1.
Golisano saved the Sabres out of bankruptcy, kept the team in Buffalo, and if this sale happens will have only sold to someone with local ties and no apparent desire to relocate the team.
That will put Golisano on the good side of the ledger when looking at the various owners in the history of the team. He will never be as beloved as the Knox brothers, nor should he. But, I won't view him as the disappoint that some might just because of things like hiring Larry Quinn to run things and being an absentee owner of late.
Who knows what Pegula will do as an owner.
I hope he isn't a Jerry Jones/Dan Snyder/Al Davis type that micromanages those that are more qualified to run an NHL team.
But, I also hope that the culture that Pegula brings to the Sabres puts a much greater focus on winning on the ice than has been there recently.
Although, this deal could fall apart like others before it. So while it will be cool to have a former Pee Wee coach as an owner, it's far from a done deal, it would appear.
Buffalo News
SportsNet.ca bio
I always liked Jim Kelley when he was the hockey writer at The Buffalo News.
And his Sharpshooters radio shows with Mike Robitaille on WGR were wildly entertaining and informative as well.
It was sad to read that he has passed on.
Terrence Pegula really close to buying the Sabres?
Buffalo News
The Hockey News
B. Thomas Golisano may be on the verge of selling the Sabres to Terrence Pegula.
I think it would be cool if the Sabres were owned by someone who loves hockey, was his kid's youth hockey coach once upon a time, and cut a huge check to get Penn State's men's & women's ice hockey programs to Division 1.
Golisano saved the Sabres out of bankruptcy, kept the team in Buffalo, and if this sale happens will have only sold to someone with local ties and no apparent desire to relocate the team.
That will put Golisano on the good side of the ledger when looking at the various owners in the history of the team. He will never be as beloved as the Knox brothers, nor should he. But, I won't view him as the disappoint that some might just because of things like hiring Larry Quinn to run things and being an absentee owner of late.
Who knows what Pegula will do as an owner.
I hope he isn't a Jerry Jones/Dan Snyder/Al Davis type that micromanages those that are more qualified to run an NHL team.
But, I also hope that the culture that Pegula brings to the Sabres puts a much greater focus on winning on the ice than has been there recently.
Although, this deal could fall apart like others before it. So while it will be cool to have a former Pee Wee coach as an owner, it's far from a done deal, it would appear.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Random thoughts
- With the Sabres going 3-0-1 in their last four games, perhaps it was too early to dream about owning the 1st overall pick in the 2010 draft......
- Larry Quinn is going to stick with Regier and Ruff? Tell me something I don't know, Bucky!
- This is season #13 of the Regier & Ruff era in Sabres hockey. They have made the playoffs in 7 of their previous 12 seasons and they have won 10 playoff series in that time. While they haven't won it all, that isn't that bad a record given the ownership turmoil and the whole "small market" element that they have had to deal with.
- I'd still like to see things shaken up over at HSBC Arena....
- Vanek's game winner against the Caps was siiiiiick. Maybe I won't burn his jersey just yet.
- It's nice having Miller back, huh?
- The Sabres defense is putting up big numbers offensively so far. And Leopold's early play in a Sabres uniform is making the signing that I hated when it happened look a lot better than I thought.
So far......
But, I am looking right on re-signing Lalime being a bad idea!
- Larry Quinn is going to stick with Regier and Ruff? Tell me something I don't know, Bucky!
- This is season #13 of the Regier & Ruff era in Sabres hockey. They have made the playoffs in 7 of their previous 12 seasons and they have won 10 playoff series in that time. While they haven't won it all, that isn't that bad a record given the ownership turmoil and the whole "small market" element that they have had to deal with.
- I'd still like to see things shaken up over at HSBC Arena....
- Vanek's game winner against the Caps was siiiiiick. Maybe I won't burn his jersey just yet.
- It's nice having Miller back, huh?
- The Sabres defense is putting up big numbers offensively so far. And Leopold's early play in a Sabres uniform is making the signing that I hated when it happened look a lot better than I thought.
So far......
But, I am looking right on re-signing Lalime being a bad idea!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
I am a Jessica LaPoint fan
Sabres Edge Blog
Check out Jessica's story over at The Buffalo News' Sabres Edge Blog on why she put up the "Fans show up..... Why don't you?" sign at HSBC Arena.
That is awesome.
And while the players themselves likely look up at the signs less than frequently, it is a great message to put out there.
What else can fans do to get the team on track?
It is always a widely debated topic when a team isn't going well.
There are the boycott ideas, booing of the players (like say Tim Connolly) or teams, or usual venting on Twitter, internet message boards, comments and chats at The Buffalo News site, and blog posts.
The problem with the Sabres right now is that I don't know if meaningful changes will happen if Tom Golisano continues as an absentee owner and has Larry Quinn as the managing partner. Quinn seems married to Darcy Regier as GM. And Regier seems married to not only Lindy Ruff, but the "core" of the team, as well.
It gets back to what The Goose's Roost aptly labeled as The System.
Is it possible for Sabres fans to get the status quo changed?
For me, it all seems to be what motivates Tom Golisano as the owner of the team.
Is he motivated purely by the bottom line and maximizing profits? If so, then I'm not sure what Sabres fans can do to change the club's course as I don't see fans boycotting as a whole.
But, if Golisano was being honest when he talked about buying the team to do something for the people of Western New York, then perhaps he can be convinced to change course and put a higher priority on winning a Stanley Cup.
Seriously, how beloved would Golisano be if he shook things up and the team did finally win a Stanley Cup on his watch? He could probably run for Congress and win in the afterglow of something like that.
Randomness:
- Tyler Ennis is 2nd in rookie scoring so far, but I'll be happy if he finishes in the top three in Calder Trophy voting with the way Jeff Sminner, Michal Neuvirth, and John Carlson have started the year.
- While I don't believe there is any chance that Regier is actively trying to land Jarome Iginla, it is interesting to think about. While I wouldn't mind shipping Stafford and Connolly out of town, I don't want to give up Zack Kassian, yet.
To me, a more interesting conversation would be a deal that centers around Vanek for Iginla. Their cap hits are verys close ($7.14M for Vanek & $7M for Iginla). Vanek is an UFA in 2014 and Iginla is an UFA in 2013. Both are off to slow starts this season.
Iginla is tougher and more of a leader. Vanek is 7 years younger than Iginla and could have more tread left on his tires.
Again, I don't think there is a chance that Regier would make that happen. But, it would intrigue me.
And as far as the Rivet for Jason Blake and a 4th rumor in that piece, no thanks. Blake is so overpriced at $4M per year and the fact that he has another year left on his contract has me not wanting to touch him with a 10 foot pole.
Now if the Ducks wanted to do a deal that landed Luca Sbisa in Buffalo like say Rivet and Chris Butler or Andrej Sekera for Sbisa and a 4th......
Check out Jessica's story over at The Buffalo News' Sabres Edge Blog on why she put up the "Fans show up..... Why don't you?" sign at HSBC Arena.
That is awesome.
And while the players themselves likely look up at the signs less than frequently, it is a great message to put out there.
What else can fans do to get the team on track?
It is always a widely debated topic when a team isn't going well.
There are the boycott ideas, booing of the players (like say Tim Connolly) or teams, or usual venting on Twitter, internet message boards, comments and chats at The Buffalo News site, and blog posts.
The problem with the Sabres right now is that I don't know if meaningful changes will happen if Tom Golisano continues as an absentee owner and has Larry Quinn as the managing partner. Quinn seems married to Darcy Regier as GM. And Regier seems married to not only Lindy Ruff, but the "core" of the team, as well.
It gets back to what The Goose's Roost aptly labeled as The System.
Is it possible for Sabres fans to get the status quo changed?
For me, it all seems to be what motivates Tom Golisano as the owner of the team.
Is he motivated purely by the bottom line and maximizing profits? If so, then I'm not sure what Sabres fans can do to change the club's course as I don't see fans boycotting as a whole.
But, if Golisano was being honest when he talked about buying the team to do something for the people of Western New York, then perhaps he can be convinced to change course and put a higher priority on winning a Stanley Cup.
Seriously, how beloved would Golisano be if he shook things up and the team did finally win a Stanley Cup on his watch? He could probably run for Congress and win in the afterglow of something like that.
Randomness:
- Tyler Ennis is 2nd in rookie scoring so far, but I'll be happy if he finishes in the top three in Calder Trophy voting with the way Jeff Sminner, Michal Neuvirth, and John Carlson have started the year.
- While I don't believe there is any chance that Regier is actively trying to land Jarome Iginla, it is interesting to think about. While I wouldn't mind shipping Stafford and Connolly out of town, I don't want to give up Zack Kassian, yet.
To me, a more interesting conversation would be a deal that centers around Vanek for Iginla. Their cap hits are verys close ($7.14M for Vanek & $7M for Iginla). Vanek is an UFA in 2014 and Iginla is an UFA in 2013. Both are off to slow starts this season.
Iginla is tougher and more of a leader. Vanek is 7 years younger than Iginla and could have more tread left on his tires.
Again, I don't think there is a chance that Regier would make that happen. But, it would intrigue me.
And as far as the Rivet for Jason Blake and a 4th rumor in that piece, no thanks. Blake is so overpriced at $4M per year and the fact that he has another year left on his contract has me not wanting to touch him with a 10 foot pole.
Now if the Ducks wanted to do a deal that landed Luca Sbisa in Buffalo like say Rivet and Chris Butler or Andrej Sekera for Sbisa and a 4th......
Friday, November 5, 2010
Jealousy & Team Sean or Team Ryan
There was a two part documentary on the overhaul that the Edmonton Oilers overtook this past off season called Oil Change that ran on the NHL Network in the last week.
I was jealous.
After the horrible season that the Oilers had last year their owner (who's company produced the documentary, FWIW) felt that they needed a huge culture change and to commit to a sizable rebuild.
I was jealous that the Oilers had an owner that cared about his team and was involved in a shift in direction for the on ice product.
I was jealous that they had a buch of really good young forward prospects like Eberle, Paajarvi, and then Taylor Hall.
I was jealous that their GM was willing to cut ties with guys that were seen as part of the problem.
While many Bills fans have gotten to the point where they don't have a lot of hope for the team while Ralph is the owner, I wonder if there is any chance that the culture change the Sabres need will ever happen with Golisano & Quinn are the owner/managing partner duo with the Sabres.
I was jealous of Tampa Bay getting Steve Yzerman to take over that club.
I hope that one day Golisano will wake up and make the culture change that the Sabres need to really compete for the Cup.
I'm just not very hopeful that that day will ever come......
Team Sean or Team Ryan?
Red Line Report
Since the Sabres are currently dead [radio edit] last in the NHL and would be guaranteed a top 2 pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft if the season were to end today, let's start talking about the top end prospects in the 2011 Draft.
Most people agree that there are 3 elite prospects in this year's draft.
I'm going to take Swedish defenseman Adam Larsson off my radar for a few reasons:
A) He's Swedish and the Sabres have been drafting only North American kids for a while
B) He's a RH defenseman and the Sabres have selected RH defensemen Mark Pysyk (2010) and Tyler Myers (2008) in the first round of 2 of the last 3 drafts
C) The Sabres really need a franchise center and the other two guys are potential franchise centers
So, this year's Taylor vs Tyler debate will be Sean Couturier vs Ryan Nugent-Hopkins.
Couturier will be the guy that people that want the Sabres to get bigger will favor as he has 3 inches and 15 to 20 pounds on Nugent-Hopkins.
Personally, I am leaning towards Nugent-Hopkins because of the talk that he has high level hockey sense and his vision and puckhandling ability is getting compared to Patrick Kane.
Couturier looks to be the better goal scorer. Nugent-Hopkins is more of a playmaker.
Couturier might be more responsible defensively.
Nugent-Hopkins led Canada in scoring at the Ivan Hlinka Tournament with 7 points in 6 games.
Couturier is good at the faceoff dot and his work ethic is getting solid reviews, as well.
If the Sabres season does go in the absolute tank, they likely won't go wrong with either kid. But, I tend to like prospects that see the game better, so for now, I'm on Team Ryan.
I was jealous.
After the horrible season that the Oilers had last year their owner (who's company produced the documentary, FWIW) felt that they needed a huge culture change and to commit to a sizable rebuild.
I was jealous that the Oilers had an owner that cared about his team and was involved in a shift in direction for the on ice product.
I was jealous that they had a buch of really good young forward prospects like Eberle, Paajarvi, and then Taylor Hall.
I was jealous that their GM was willing to cut ties with guys that were seen as part of the problem.
While many Bills fans have gotten to the point where they don't have a lot of hope for the team while Ralph is the owner, I wonder if there is any chance that the culture change the Sabres need will ever happen with Golisano & Quinn are the owner/managing partner duo with the Sabres.
I was jealous of Tampa Bay getting Steve Yzerman to take over that club.
I hope that one day Golisano will wake up and make the culture change that the Sabres need to really compete for the Cup.
I'm just not very hopeful that that day will ever come......
Team Sean or Team Ryan?
Red Line Report
Since the Sabres are currently dead [radio edit] last in the NHL and would be guaranteed a top 2 pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft if the season were to end today, let's start talking about the top end prospects in the 2011 Draft.
Most people agree that there are 3 elite prospects in this year's draft.
I'm going to take Swedish defenseman Adam Larsson off my radar for a few reasons:
A) He's Swedish and the Sabres have been drafting only North American kids for a while
B) He's a RH defenseman and the Sabres have selected RH defensemen Mark Pysyk (2010) and Tyler Myers (2008) in the first round of 2 of the last 3 drafts
C) The Sabres really need a franchise center and the other two guys are potential franchise centers
So, this year's Taylor vs Tyler debate will be Sean Couturier vs Ryan Nugent-Hopkins.
Couturier will be the guy that people that want the Sabres to get bigger will favor as he has 3 inches and 15 to 20 pounds on Nugent-Hopkins.
Personally, I am leaning towards Nugent-Hopkins because of the talk that he has high level hockey sense and his vision and puckhandling ability is getting compared to Patrick Kane.
Couturier looks to be the better goal scorer. Nugent-Hopkins is more of a playmaker.
Couturier might be more responsible defensively.
Nugent-Hopkins led Canada in scoring at the Ivan Hlinka Tournament with 7 points in 6 games.
Couturier is good at the faceoff dot and his work ethic is getting solid reviews, as well.
If the Sabres season does go in the absolute tank, they likely won't go wrong with either kid. But, I tend to like prospects that see the game better, so for now, I'm on Team Ryan.
Monday, November 1, 2010
The perfect storm
It's starting to look like the 2009-10 division title the Sabres won last year was an epic fluke.
With the Sabres sitting in one point ahead of the NJ Devils for DFL in the Eastern Conference and the entire NHL, it will be interesting to see what happens.
Will Tom Golisano notice?
Will Darcy Regier make any changes?
Will this team bottom out and get a shot at Sean Couturier or Ryan Nugent-Hopkins at the top of the 2011 draft? I'd throw Swedish defenseman Adam Larsson in the mix, but the Sabres need an impact center, big time.
The one good thing is that it would appear that re-signing Tim Connolly might be completely out of the question.....
With the Sabres sitting in one point ahead of the NJ Devils for DFL in the Eastern Conference and the entire NHL, it will be interesting to see what happens.
Will Tom Golisano notice?
Will Darcy Regier make any changes?
Will this team bottom out and get a shot at Sean Couturier or Ryan Nugent-Hopkins at the top of the 2011 draft? I'd throw Swedish defenseman Adam Larsson in the mix, but the Sabres need an impact center, big time.
The one good thing is that it would appear that re-signing Tim Connolly might be completely out of the question.....
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Keep the intensity
The Sabres came out fast and blew the Thrashers out last night.
I just hope that they keep the intensity and the work ethic and don't revert to "this game is easy" mode.
One good thing is that Vanek finally broke the seal and got on the scoresheet. Hopefully that allows him to grip his Warrior twig a little lighter and he starts finishing more of the chances that he gets.
He scored on 1 out of 3 shots last nights. If he can keep that rate up over the next few weeks, the Sabres will be in a lot better shape.
I just hope that they keep the intensity and the work ethic and don't revert to "this game is easy" mode.
One good thing is that Vanek finally broke the seal and got on the scoresheet. Hopefully that allows him to grip his Warrior twig a little lighter and he starts finishing more of the chances that he gets.
He scored on 1 out of 3 shots last nights. If he can keep that rate up over the next few weeks, the Sabres will be in a lot better shape.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Spector is killing me
Lyle's latest THN Blog Post
Rumors that Nieuwy & Burke have a history so Brad Richards could end up a Leaf before the season is out?
Are you trying to kill me over here?
Rumors that Nieuwy & Burke have a history so Brad Richards could end up a Leaf before the season is out?
Are you trying to kill me over here?
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Dear Jerry,
Jerry Sullivan's latest column
Has buying out Tim Kennedy had a small impact on why the Sabres stink right now?
Probably.
But, a much bigger reason is the fact that Vanek and Connolly have stunk to high hell, Tyler Myers is in need of a massive sophomore slump buster, and the PP that was putrid last year may be even worse this year.
And rather than pine for Tim Kennedy or Henrik Tallinder, I'm pining for the types of players that Darcy Regier hasn't brought to Buffalo.
I'm pining for Brad Richards. You know, a real top 20 center who is currently 2nd in the league in scoring and has a Stanley Cup on his resume.
I'm pining for Tomas Kaberle who has 4 PP assists already this season. The entire Sabres blueline has 2 PP pts so far this season.
I'm pining for a back up goalie like Ty Conklin who had a couple of the sickest saves you'll ever see for the Blues the other night. Or even Cory Schneider who is a stud prospect who is stuck behind Roberto Luongo in Vancouver.
I like Tim Kennedy and I wouldn't have been upset if they kept him even at the overpriced arbitration award of $1 million.
But, the issues with the Sabres are more about who they've kept [Connolly & Vanek are at the top of my list right now] and less about who they've let go.
Has buying out Tim Kennedy had a small impact on why the Sabres stink right now?
Probably.
But, a much bigger reason is the fact that Vanek and Connolly have stunk to high hell, Tyler Myers is in need of a massive sophomore slump buster, and the PP that was putrid last year may be even worse this year.
And rather than pine for Tim Kennedy or Henrik Tallinder, I'm pining for the types of players that Darcy Regier hasn't brought to Buffalo.
I'm pining for Brad Richards. You know, a real top 20 center who is currently 2nd in the league in scoring and has a Stanley Cup on his resume.
I'm pining for Tomas Kaberle who has 4 PP assists already this season. The entire Sabres blueline has 2 PP pts so far this season.
I'm pining for a back up goalie like Ty Conklin who had a couple of the sickest saves you'll ever see for the Blues the other night. Or even Cory Schneider who is a stud prospect who is stuck behind Roberto Luongo in Vancouver.
I like Tim Kennedy and I wouldn't have been upset if they kept him even at the overpriced arbitration award of $1 million.
But, the issues with the Sabres are more about who they've kept [Connolly & Vanek are at the top of my list right now] and less about who they've let go.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Drew Stafford - Contract Year
Bucky took a look at how Drew Stafford looked this pre-season.
It will be interesting to see what the contract year effect does to Drew Stafford.
Then it will be interesting to see what the Sabres do with Drew Stafford if he does get a big contract year bump in production.
Knowing the Sabres approach, they will reward Drew with a nice, fat contract extension and bank on that he'll maintain that level moving forward, or maybe even improve.
Personally, I hope the Sabres deal Drew Stafford if he does have a big jump in production this year.
He's never been a guy that has earned my trust as a fan. And one big contract year season won't change that for me.
It will be interesting to see what the contract year effect does to Drew Stafford.
Then it will be interesting to see what the Sabres do with Drew Stafford if he does get a big contract year bump in production.
Knowing the Sabres approach, they will reward Drew with a nice, fat contract extension and bank on that he'll maintain that level moving forward, or maybe even improve.
Personally, I hope the Sabres deal Drew Stafford if he does have a big jump in production this year.
He's never been a guy that has earned my trust as a fan. And one big contract year season won't change that for me.
- The Rangers waived Tim Kennedy? I hope Tim has waived his agent.
- Vanek & Kaleta having neck injuries worries me. Lalime having a groin issue makes me wish the Sabres had gone another route at back up goalie. Like say signed Jose Theodore....
- I hate MSG & Dish Network.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
My new favorite TLA (Three Letter Acronym) is BZK
It was only one pre-season game, but Zack Kassian had a nice debut rocking a #54 Sabres jersey.
It's unlikely that he'll make the Sabres. But, I can't wait to see what he's like 3 years from now when he might be the power winger the Sabres have been looking for since a young Brad May looked like he might develop into a fighter with 2nd line hands.
In other news......
Patrick Lalime hasn't had a Carey Price bad pre-season. But, I don't see him being a guy that gives Lindy Ruff enough confidence to not ride Ryan Miller into the ground.
Unfortunately, I don't know if Jhonas Enroth will be that guy in the next few years, either.
And while Drew Stafford is a popular whipping boy and I don't want to pile on, but I have to. If Regier could somehow replace Stafford with Jamie Langenbrunner, that would make me like this team sooooooo much more.
It's unlikely that he'll make the Sabres. But, I can't wait to see what he's like 3 years from now when he might be the power winger the Sabres have been looking for since a young Brad May looked like he might develop into a fighter with 2nd line hands.
In other news......
Patrick Lalime hasn't had a Carey Price bad pre-season. But, I don't see him being a guy that gives Lindy Ruff enough confidence to not ride Ryan Miller into the ground.
Unfortunately, I don't know if Jhonas Enroth will be that guy in the next few years, either.
And while Drew Stafford is a popular whipping boy and I don't want to pile on, but I have to. If Regier could somehow replace Stafford with Jamie Langenbrunner, that would make me like this team sooooooo much more.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Kennedy, MacArthur, and Ellis
Over the last 24 to 36 hours, Tim Kennedy signed a $550,000 deal with the Rangers, Clarke MacArthur signed a $1.1 million deal with Toronto, and Matt Ellis re-signed with the Sabres on a two way deal that will pay him $625,000 if he's in Buffalo and not Portland.
Some fans will wonder about the Ellis signing since the Sabres said that they were over budget when they announced the Kennedy buy out. The big difference here is that Ellis signed a two way deal so the Sabres can afford to send Matt to Portland if he doesn't beat out the likes of Nathan Gerbe, Mark Mancari, and Colin Stuart for an NHL job.
Tim Kennedy and his agent badly misplayed their hand, IMO. WGR 550's Paul Hamilton said on the air this week that the Sabres offered Kennedy a one year, one way deal at $800,000. And reportedly that offer came with a warning that the Sabres didn't have any more room in their budget for Kennedy than that should the arbitration award come in over $800,000.
Kennedy and his agent obviously didn't think the Sabres would buy out the home town boy. Especially given Regier's anti-buyout public statements in the past when fans and media wondered why the Sabres weren't buying out certain players that were underperforming based on their contracts.
But, they mis-calculated. And now Kennedy is making less money from the Rangers and living in a city with a much higher cost of living.
Oops.
MacArthur getting $1.1 million on the open market after Atlanta walked away from a $2 million arbitration award makes me wonder what MacArthur's agent was thinking. Why they didn't ask for an award just south of the level that the Thrashers wouldn't have been able to walk away from is beyond me.
Oops.
Some fans will wonder about the Ellis signing since the Sabres said that they were over budget when they announced the Kennedy buy out. The big difference here is that Ellis signed a two way deal so the Sabres can afford to send Matt to Portland if he doesn't beat out the likes of Nathan Gerbe, Mark Mancari, and Colin Stuart for an NHL job.
Tim Kennedy and his agent badly misplayed their hand, IMO. WGR 550's Paul Hamilton said on the air this week that the Sabres offered Kennedy a one year, one way deal at $800,000. And reportedly that offer came with a warning that the Sabres didn't have any more room in their budget for Kennedy than that should the arbitration award come in over $800,000.
Kennedy and his agent obviously didn't think the Sabres would buy out the home town boy. Especially given Regier's anti-buyout public statements in the past when fans and media wondered why the Sabres weren't buying out certain players that were underperforming based on their contracts.
But, they mis-calculated. And now Kennedy is making less money from the Rangers and living in a city with a much higher cost of living.
Oops.
MacArthur getting $1.1 million on the open market after Atlanta walked away from a $2 million arbitration award makes me wonder what MacArthur's agent was thinking. Why they didn't ask for an award just south of the level that the Thrashers wouldn't have been able to walk away from is beyond me.
Oops.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
It's been a while
So, Drew Stafford and Tim Connolly are still Sabres.
You didn't really expect Regier to move them, did you?
I've gotten over Tim Kennedy getting whacked over $200k or so. I think it was a short sighted move. But, I doubt the guy blossoms into Pat Kane v2.0, so it won't be a huge deal down the road.
The Shaone Morrisonn (that name is realllllllly hard to spell correctly) signing was intriguing. That either means that Mike Weber isn't a virtual lock to make the roster, Criag Rivet's rehab isn't going as swimmingly as the Sabres had previously said, there is a trade coming soon that will ship a defenseman out of town, Chris Butler is headed to Portland, or a bit of everything.
While I wasn't in love with the Leopold deal, I kind of like how the defense looks right now minus on the PP. Leopold could be a nice compliment to Myers. Morrisonn & Montador would be a nice, physical pairing. And a third pairing made up of two out of Butler, Weber, Sekera, and Rivet isn't half bad if they can get two guys out of that four that are better than last year.
This team may not have made quantum leaps in improvement over last year. But, I can see why they would think that they didn't need to after winning the division.
They are once again banking on the forwards growing up a bit more. Maybe Tyler Ennis can have a sizable impact like Tyler Myers did last year.
They are also banking on Leopold & Morrisonn being better than Tallinder & Lydman. That could go either way.
But all in all, this off season has gone pretty close to what I expected.
Now let's see if the jerseys look like this:
HF Boards.com
You didn't really expect Regier to move them, did you?
I've gotten over Tim Kennedy getting whacked over $200k or so. I think it was a short sighted move. But, I doubt the guy blossoms into Pat Kane v2.0, so it won't be a huge deal down the road.
The Shaone Morrisonn (that name is realllllllly hard to spell correctly) signing was intriguing. That either means that Mike Weber isn't a virtual lock to make the roster, Criag Rivet's rehab isn't going as swimmingly as the Sabres had previously said, there is a trade coming soon that will ship a defenseman out of town, Chris Butler is headed to Portland, or a bit of everything.
While I wasn't in love with the Leopold deal, I kind of like how the defense looks right now minus on the PP. Leopold could be a nice compliment to Myers. Morrisonn & Montador would be a nice, physical pairing. And a third pairing made up of two out of Butler, Weber, Sekera, and Rivet isn't half bad if they can get two guys out of that four that are better than last year.
This team may not have made quantum leaps in improvement over last year. But, I can see why they would think that they didn't need to after winning the division.
They are once again banking on the forwards growing up a bit more. Maybe Tyler Ennis can have a sizable impact like Tyler Myers did last year.
They are also banking on Leopold & Morrisonn being better than Tallinder & Lydman. That could go either way.
But all in all, this off season has gone pretty close to what I expected.
Now let's see if the jerseys look like this:
HF Boards.com
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Is Regier done now?
Yesterday was a busy day for Darcy Regier has he signed UFA C Rob Niedermayer, re-signed back up G Patrick Lalime, and D Mike Weber signed his qualifying offer.
With Tim Kennedy opting for arbitration and the Sabres electing to take Patrick Kaleta to arbitration, Darcy Regier could be done for the summer in about a month.
I know some fans are hoping that Regier still makes a trade. Shipping Drew Stafford out of town is on most fans' minds. Personally, I'm wondering if a package that starts with Stafford and Nathan Gerbe might entice some teams that need to clear cap space. Stafford's cap hit of $1.9M and Gerbe's cap hit of $850k would help teams like Philadelphia, New Jersey, and perhaps Boston.
Other intriguing options would be the obvious of trying to pry Tomas Kaberle out of Toronto (I doubt the Sabres have a package that Brian Burke would want) or the little less obvious of trying to pry a defenseman out of Calgary as the Flames are heavy on defense and light up front. Although, Calgary may feel they are OK up front with the Jokinen & Tanguay UFA signings and Regier may be happy with his current crop of defensemen.
Personally, I'm expecting Regier to not bring in any more players outside of the organization. The biggest wild card I see the rest of this off season is whether the Sabres sign Zack Kassian to an Entry Level Contract or not.
That would give the Sabres a projected opening night lineup like this:
Vanek-Roy-Stafford
Hecht-Connolly-Pominville
Ennis-Niedermayer-Grier
Kennedy-Gaustad-Kaleta
Gerbe-McCormick
Leopold-Myers
Weber-Montador
Butler-Sekera
Gragnani
Rivet (IR)
Miller
Lalime
I think that roster is good enough to get into the playoffs. But, they would need to get a really good match up or Miller would need to stand on his head to get out of the first round......
With Tim Kennedy opting for arbitration and the Sabres electing to take Patrick Kaleta to arbitration, Darcy Regier could be done for the summer in about a month.
I know some fans are hoping that Regier still makes a trade. Shipping Drew Stafford out of town is on most fans' minds. Personally, I'm wondering if a package that starts with Stafford and Nathan Gerbe might entice some teams that need to clear cap space. Stafford's cap hit of $1.9M and Gerbe's cap hit of $850k would help teams like Philadelphia, New Jersey, and perhaps Boston.
Other intriguing options would be the obvious of trying to pry Tomas Kaberle out of Toronto (I doubt the Sabres have a package that Brian Burke would want) or the little less obvious of trying to pry a defenseman out of Calgary as the Flames are heavy on defense and light up front. Although, Calgary may feel they are OK up front with the Jokinen & Tanguay UFA signings and Regier may be happy with his current crop of defensemen.
Personally, I'm expecting Regier to not bring in any more players outside of the organization. The biggest wild card I see the rest of this off season is whether the Sabres sign Zack Kassian to an Entry Level Contract or not.
That would give the Sabres a projected opening night lineup like this:
Vanek-Roy-Stafford
Hecht-Connolly-Pominville
Ennis-Niedermayer-Grier
Kennedy-Gaustad-Kaleta
Gerbe-McCormick
Leopold-Myers
Weber-Montador
Butler-Sekera
Gragnani
Rivet (IR)
Miller
Lalime
I think that roster is good enough to get into the playoffs. But, they would need to get a really good match up or Miller would need to stand on his head to get out of the first round......
Friday, July 2, 2010
I thought the plan was to get better?
Didn't Darcy Regier and Larry Quinn talk about how they wanted to improve the Buffalo Sabres this off season?
I know we're only one day into Free Agency, but I'm less than thrilled with what happened yesterday.
I didn't expect Toni Lydman or Henrik Tallinder to be back after they hit the open market. But, with two spots on defense open, I was disappointed in how the Sabres addressed the need.
I have no issue with giving Mike Weber and Marc-Andre Gragnani a shot. But giving Jordan Leopold 3 years and $9 million is tough for me to stomach.
Leopold was the Penguins' 6th defenseman in the playoffs last year before getting his season ended with a shot to the head. The fact that Leopold has previously missed large chunks of time due to concussions makes me question this signing even more.
But ultimately, my issue is that Leopold is a soft, mobile defenseman who doesn't bring big offensive production to the table.
Maybe Mike Weber will bring the nasty edge the Sabres need on defense. But, Leopold isn't the PP QB the Sabres have needed for a while now.
If the Sabres make a move where they ship out Chris Butler or Andrej Sekera and they add a legit PP QB defenseman, then it will be easier to swallow what happened yesterday.
But, Darcy Regier sounded like he was done addressing the defense and he's focusing on the forward ranks. But, with guys like Adam Mair & Matt Ellis on the UFA market, it is unlikely that Regier brings in more than 3rd/4th line guys at this point.
So once again, Regier will tweak the roster and hope for growth from is "core".
And while I could see guys like Vanek & Pominville being able to improve over last year, I don't see anyone making the impact that Tyler Myers had on this team last season.
If the Sabres don't get a pop like that, what are the odds that they improve?
Perhaps the motto for the Sabres' 40th Anniversary season should be: Commitment to Mediocrity
I know we're only one day into Free Agency, but I'm less than thrilled with what happened yesterday.
I didn't expect Toni Lydman or Henrik Tallinder to be back after they hit the open market. But, with two spots on defense open, I was disappointed in how the Sabres addressed the need.
I have no issue with giving Mike Weber and Marc-Andre Gragnani a shot. But giving Jordan Leopold 3 years and $9 million is tough for me to stomach.
Leopold was the Penguins' 6th defenseman in the playoffs last year before getting his season ended with a shot to the head. The fact that Leopold has previously missed large chunks of time due to concussions makes me question this signing even more.
But ultimately, my issue is that Leopold is a soft, mobile defenseman who doesn't bring big offensive production to the table.
Maybe Mike Weber will bring the nasty edge the Sabres need on defense. But, Leopold isn't the PP QB the Sabres have needed for a while now.
If the Sabres make a move where they ship out Chris Butler or Andrej Sekera and they add a legit PP QB defenseman, then it will be easier to swallow what happened yesterday.
But, Darcy Regier sounded like he was done addressing the defense and he's focusing on the forward ranks. But, with guys like Adam Mair & Matt Ellis on the UFA market, it is unlikely that Regier brings in more than 3rd/4th line guys at this point.
So once again, Regier will tweak the roster and hope for growth from is "core".
And while I could see guys like Vanek & Pominville being able to improve over last year, I don't see anyone making the impact that Tyler Myers had on this team last season.
If the Sabres don't get a pop like that, what are the odds that they improve?
Perhaps the motto for the Sabres' 40th Anniversary season should be: Commitment to Mediocrity
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
My Mark Cuban for a Day Post
Last week, Bucky Gleason did his now annual "GM for a Day" column at The Buffalo News.
I was disappointed because at the end of it, Bucky didn't have solid trade ideas nor a roster to really look at.
So, I'm going to take my swing at it. But, mine will be a Mark Cuban for a Day as in my alternate reality, I'll be the owner AND the GM. That way I don't have to worry about any owner imposed salary budget nor concerns over signing players to long term deals.
And given that the Sabres like to build from the goal out, I'll work my way through the roster renovations that way. I'll also guess at what Darcy Regier is likely to do this off season.
Goal:
Ryan Miller just won the Vezina Trophy. So, his $6.25 million cap hit & salary aren't going anywhere. But, with Patrick Lalime becoming an UFA in a day, the Sabres are shopping for a new back up.
Darcy Regier is likely to get a veteran on a two way deal and let the new guy and Jhonas Enroth fight it out for the back up job behind Ryan Miller. I could see Regier going after guys like Yann Danis (UFA-NJ) in that role.
What I'd Do: I know that Lindy Ruff is unlikely to use his back up goalie a lot, so I would go down the same path. I'm going to use this scouting report and see if I could trade a 2011 6th or 7th round pick to the Islanders for RFA goalie Nathan Lawson. Lawson has put up really good numbers in the AHL each of the past two seasons and might be ready to step up to be a #1 in the AHL who could be a stop gap 3rd in the NHL. I'll slot in Enroth in the NHL as his cap hit will be a little higher.
Defense:
This is where the fun begins with Toni Lydman & Henrik Tallinder about to become UFAs. Today, the Sabres have five defensemen signed that played in the NHL last year in Calder Trophy winner Tyler Myers, veterans Steve Montador & captain Craig Rivet and youngsters that need to improve in Chris Butler & Andrej Sekera.
The Sabres have talked for a while about needing to improve on special teams. With the Power Play flaming out in the playoffs versus Boston, the focus has been on the need for a PP QB on the blueline. With the Toronto Maple Leafs shopping Tomas Kaberle, one of the best PP QB defensemen in the NHL, there have been fans dreaming of the Sabres landing him.
But, Brian Burke drives a hard bargain and I doubt the Sabres have the top 6 forward who can score that Burke covets today. Personally, I'm going to go in another direction in building the blueline.
I expect that Darcy Regier could just promote Mike Weber and Marc-Andre Gragnani from Portland to replace Tallinder & Lydman. But, I am expecting that he'll re-sign one of the two UFAs-to-be and that the other spot will be filled by Weber or Gragnani. Or, if both get away, Regier might try and get a PP QB, like Kaberle, via trade and then Weber gets the lone NHL job that is open. Or, if he can't get the PP QB, he may get a more defensive minded veteran defenseman and roll the dice on Gragnani sparking the PP.
What I'd Do: I would take a slightly different approach to solving the special teams issues this team has. First, I'd want to get Tyler Myers a solid veteran partner that adds size, grit, and leadership. Calgary is heavy on defense and looking for a center to pair with Jarome Iginla. I would try and deal Derek Roy and Drew Stafford for Robyn Regehr and Mitch Wahl (prospect center). Calgary gets a guy that has the offensive game to play with Iginla and his a LH shot that can set up a solid RW like Iginla. They also get Drew Stafford to help replace what they were hoping to get from Ales Kotalik who has been waived and may get bought out by the Flames.
To fill out my defense, I will go with Mike Weber. He's a RFA, so I'll pencil him in for the 10% bump that puts him at $880,000 in salary and cap hit.
Forwards:
I've already moved out two forwards in Derek Roy and Drew Stafford. So, there is plenty of work to do here. Tim Kennedy & Patrick Kaleta are RFAs that will be re-signed by the club. With Regier softening his stance recently, I expect that the forwards will remain pretty much status quo with the only potential changes being if 2009 1st Rounder Zack Kassian can get back in the club's good graces and earn both a contract and a roster spot. Other than that, Regier might make some moves in the 4th line with Adam Mair, Matt Ellis, and Cody McCormick becoming UFAs. The biggest move might be getting a Mike Grier type (John Madden perhaps...) to add some more grit and leadership.
What I'd Do: First up is re-signing RFAs Tim Kennedy (10% bump to $880,000 for 1 year) and Patrick Kaleta (2 year one way deal for $650k & $750k for a $700k cap hit in 2010-11). I think that is fair market value for those two players.
Next, I would look to the Dallas Stars who are reportedly looking to shed payroll due to ownership issues. I want a true #1 center on the Sabres and I player with Stanley Cup winning experience. Dallas just happens to have Brad Richards who not only fits that bill, but also has a Conn Smythe Trophy on his mantle to boot. Richards has a hefty cap hit ($7.8 million) and is entering the final year of his contract. So, there is some risk involved. If Dallas really needs to cut payroll, perhaps they would bite on Tim Connolly plus a conditional draft pick (it goes to a 1st rounder if Richards signs an extension or the Sabres reach the Stanley Cup Finals in 2011). If Dallas were to ask for a 2nd tier prospect (like Felix Schutz or TJ Brennan), then I'd kick that in as well. Richards can also play the point on the PP to address a need the team has there.
I will need to try and move Tyler Ennis to center to fill out my center depth chart.
Next, I'd try and sign Matt Cullen as an UFA. He made $2.9M last year and I'd hope to get him on a 2 year $7 million deal that pays $3.5 million each season. Cullen would add to the Sabres center depth and he could play the point on the Sabres 2nd PP unit.
I would try and get Cullen to entice former teammate Ray Whitney to sign in Buffalo for 2 years $5 million that pays him $2.5 million each year. Whitney could be a Mark Recchi like signing for the Sabres that adds a solid veteran presence. And since he's 38 years old, that second year on the contract could land him.
I still have a 4th line spot to fill along with my two extra forward slots and not a lot of cap space to work with. I'd try and re-sign the trio of Mair, Ellis, and McCormick. To get Ellis & McCormick to sign, I'd give them one way $600k deals. I'd ask Adam Mair to take a slight pay cut from $800k to $700k given that he cleared waivers last season and he's unlikely to get a bunch of offers.
At the end of the day, I would have a roster with a cap hit total of $58,139,524 (Not much breathing room at the deadline. But, hopefully, I wouldn't need to add much) and a salary budget of $56,980,000.
My depth chart would look something like this:
Whitney-Richards-Vanek
Hecht-Ennis-Pominville
Kennedy-Cullen-Grier
Mair-Gaustad-Kaleta
Spares: Ellis, McCormick
Regehr-Myers
Weber-Montador
Sekera-Rivet
Spare: Butler
Miller
Enroth
I'm smaller than I'd like to be up front and my defense beyond my top pair leaves a lot to be desired. But, I'd like the culture change that would take place in the locker room by adding guys like Richards, Regehr, Whitney, and Cullen.
If this didn't work, there is the potential for a lot of cap room next summer if Richards doesn't re-up and Montador and Rivet walk. I could also look at potentially moving out Vanek and Pominville if need be, as well.
But, I have a feeling that fans that want change with the Sabres would be more excited by this type of off season than what they will get from Darcy Regier, Larry Quinn, and Tom Golisano this off season.
I was disappointed because at the end of it, Bucky didn't have solid trade ideas nor a roster to really look at.
So, I'm going to take my swing at it. But, mine will be a Mark Cuban for a Day as in my alternate reality, I'll be the owner AND the GM. That way I don't have to worry about any owner imposed salary budget nor concerns over signing players to long term deals.
And given that the Sabres like to build from the goal out, I'll work my way through the roster renovations that way. I'll also guess at what Darcy Regier is likely to do this off season.
Goal:
Ryan Miller just won the Vezina Trophy. So, his $6.25 million cap hit & salary aren't going anywhere. But, with Patrick Lalime becoming an UFA in a day, the Sabres are shopping for a new back up.
Darcy Regier is likely to get a veteran on a two way deal and let the new guy and Jhonas Enroth fight it out for the back up job behind Ryan Miller. I could see Regier going after guys like Yann Danis (UFA-NJ) in that role.
What I'd Do: I know that Lindy Ruff is unlikely to use his back up goalie a lot, so I would go down the same path. I'm going to use this scouting report and see if I could trade a 2011 6th or 7th round pick to the Islanders for RFA goalie Nathan Lawson. Lawson has put up really good numbers in the AHL each of the past two seasons and might be ready to step up to be a #1 in the AHL who could be a stop gap 3rd in the NHL. I'll slot in Enroth in the NHL as his cap hit will be a little higher.
Defense:
This is where the fun begins with Toni Lydman & Henrik Tallinder about to become UFAs. Today, the Sabres have five defensemen signed that played in the NHL last year in Calder Trophy winner Tyler Myers, veterans Steve Montador & captain Craig Rivet and youngsters that need to improve in Chris Butler & Andrej Sekera.
The Sabres have talked for a while about needing to improve on special teams. With the Power Play flaming out in the playoffs versus Boston, the focus has been on the need for a PP QB on the blueline. With the Toronto Maple Leafs shopping Tomas Kaberle, one of the best PP QB defensemen in the NHL, there have been fans dreaming of the Sabres landing him.
But, Brian Burke drives a hard bargain and I doubt the Sabres have the top 6 forward who can score that Burke covets today. Personally, I'm going to go in another direction in building the blueline.
I expect that Darcy Regier could just promote Mike Weber and Marc-Andre Gragnani from Portland to replace Tallinder & Lydman. But, I am expecting that he'll re-sign one of the two UFAs-to-be and that the other spot will be filled by Weber or Gragnani. Or, if both get away, Regier might try and get a PP QB, like Kaberle, via trade and then Weber gets the lone NHL job that is open. Or, if he can't get the PP QB, he may get a more defensive minded veteran defenseman and roll the dice on Gragnani sparking the PP.
What I'd Do: I would take a slightly different approach to solving the special teams issues this team has. First, I'd want to get Tyler Myers a solid veteran partner that adds size, grit, and leadership. Calgary is heavy on defense and looking for a center to pair with Jarome Iginla. I would try and deal Derek Roy and Drew Stafford for Robyn Regehr and Mitch Wahl (prospect center). Calgary gets a guy that has the offensive game to play with Iginla and his a LH shot that can set up a solid RW like Iginla. They also get Drew Stafford to help replace what they were hoping to get from Ales Kotalik who has been waived and may get bought out by the Flames.
To fill out my defense, I will go with Mike Weber. He's a RFA, so I'll pencil him in for the 10% bump that puts him at $880,000 in salary and cap hit.
Forwards:
I've already moved out two forwards in Derek Roy and Drew Stafford. So, there is plenty of work to do here. Tim Kennedy & Patrick Kaleta are RFAs that will be re-signed by the club. With Regier softening his stance recently, I expect that the forwards will remain pretty much status quo with the only potential changes being if 2009 1st Rounder Zack Kassian can get back in the club's good graces and earn both a contract and a roster spot. Other than that, Regier might make some moves in the 4th line with Adam Mair, Matt Ellis, and Cody McCormick becoming UFAs. The biggest move might be getting a Mike Grier type (John Madden perhaps...) to add some more grit and leadership.
What I'd Do: First up is re-signing RFAs Tim Kennedy (10% bump to $880,000 for 1 year) and Patrick Kaleta (2 year one way deal for $650k & $750k for a $700k cap hit in 2010-11). I think that is fair market value for those two players.
Next, I would look to the Dallas Stars who are reportedly looking to shed payroll due to ownership issues. I want a true #1 center on the Sabres and I player with Stanley Cup winning experience. Dallas just happens to have Brad Richards who not only fits that bill, but also has a Conn Smythe Trophy on his mantle to boot. Richards has a hefty cap hit ($7.8 million) and is entering the final year of his contract. So, there is some risk involved. If Dallas really needs to cut payroll, perhaps they would bite on Tim Connolly plus a conditional draft pick (it goes to a 1st rounder if Richards signs an extension or the Sabres reach the Stanley Cup Finals in 2011). If Dallas were to ask for a 2nd tier prospect (like Felix Schutz or TJ Brennan), then I'd kick that in as well. Richards can also play the point on the PP to address a need the team has there.
I will need to try and move Tyler Ennis to center to fill out my center depth chart.
Next, I'd try and sign Matt Cullen as an UFA. He made $2.9M last year and I'd hope to get him on a 2 year $7 million deal that pays $3.5 million each season. Cullen would add to the Sabres center depth and he could play the point on the Sabres 2nd PP unit.
I would try and get Cullen to entice former teammate Ray Whitney to sign in Buffalo for 2 years $5 million that pays him $2.5 million each year. Whitney could be a Mark Recchi like signing for the Sabres that adds a solid veteran presence. And since he's 38 years old, that second year on the contract could land him.
I still have a 4th line spot to fill along with my two extra forward slots and not a lot of cap space to work with. I'd try and re-sign the trio of Mair, Ellis, and McCormick. To get Ellis & McCormick to sign, I'd give them one way $600k deals. I'd ask Adam Mair to take a slight pay cut from $800k to $700k given that he cleared waivers last season and he's unlikely to get a bunch of offers.
At the end of the day, I would have a roster with a cap hit total of $58,139,524 (Not much breathing room at the deadline. But, hopefully, I wouldn't need to add much) and a salary budget of $56,980,000.
My depth chart would look something like this:
Whitney-Richards-Vanek
Hecht-Ennis-Pominville
Kennedy-Cullen-Grier
Mair-Gaustad-Kaleta
Spares: Ellis, McCormick
Regehr-Myers
Weber-Montador
Sekera-Rivet
Spare: Butler
Miller
Enroth
I'm smaller than I'd like to be up front and my defense beyond my top pair leaves a lot to be desired. But, I'd like the culture change that would take place in the locker room by adding guys like Richards, Regehr, Whitney, and Cullen.
If this didn't work, there is the potential for a lot of cap room next summer if Richards doesn't re-up and Montador and Rivet walk. I could also look at potentially moving out Vanek and Pominville if need be, as well.
But, I have a feeling that fans that want change with the Sabres would be more excited by this type of off season than what they will get from Darcy Regier, Larry Quinn, and Tom Golisano this off season.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Draft week
The Buffalo News did a piece today that was obvious for those that have been paying attention lately.
If the Sabres pick at 23, then I'm going to expect them to take a North American that plays in the CHL. Over the past 3 drafts (2007 through 2009), the Sabres have made 22 picks. All 22 have been North Americans. And here is their league based on round:
1st Round - 3 picks - 3 from the CHL (2 WHL & 1 OHL)
2nd Round - 3 picks - 3 from the CHL (2 QMJHL & 1 OHL)
3rd Round - 3 picks - 1 CHL (WHL), 1 Jr A (USHL), 1 US High School
4th Round - 3 picks - 2 CHL (1 QMJHL & 1 OHL), 1 US High School
5th Round - 4 picks - 2 CHL (2 QMJHL), 1 Jr A (AJHL), 1 US High School
6th Round - 3 picks - 2 CHL (1 QMJHL & 1 OHL), 1 NCAA
7th Round - 3 picks - 1 CHL (1 QMJHL), 1 Jr A (EJHL), 1 US High School
14 of the picks have been from the CHL (and 6 out of 6 in the first two rounds) and 8 have been players that were either playing NCAA hockey (1) or in a league that traditionally feeds the NCAA (Jr A or US High School) (7).
If the Sabres follow the recent trend, they will take a player from the CHL in the first round. From there, it is 50-50 between CHL players and players that will liekly end up playing NCAA college hockey.
So, I'm expecting the Sabres to look at guys like Dylan McIlrath (Moose Jaw - WHL), Emerson Etem (Medicine Hat - WHL), Quinton Howden (Moose Jaw - WHL), Mark Pysyk (Edmonton - WHL), or Ryan Johansen (Portland - WHL) if they are on the clock at 23 and the stick to their recent draft pattern.
I would be mildly surprised if they too an NCAA or Jr A (ie headed to the NCAA) guy in the 1st and I'd be really surprised if they took a European player, even if he was a CHL-based Euro ala Alexander Burmistrov.
And I'd be completely stunned if they were the team to roll the dice on Kirill Kabanov.
If the Sabres pick at 23, then I'm going to expect them to take a North American that plays in the CHL. Over the past 3 drafts (2007 through 2009), the Sabres have made 22 picks. All 22 have been North Americans. And here is their league based on round:
1st Round - 3 picks - 3 from the CHL (2 WHL & 1 OHL)
2nd Round - 3 picks - 3 from the CHL (2 QMJHL & 1 OHL)
3rd Round - 3 picks - 1 CHL (WHL), 1 Jr A (USHL), 1 US High School
4th Round - 3 picks - 2 CHL (1 QMJHL & 1 OHL), 1 US High School
5th Round - 4 picks - 2 CHL (2 QMJHL), 1 Jr A (AJHL), 1 US High School
6th Round - 3 picks - 2 CHL (1 QMJHL & 1 OHL), 1 NCAA
7th Round - 3 picks - 1 CHL (1 QMJHL), 1 Jr A (EJHL), 1 US High School
14 of the picks have been from the CHL (and 6 out of 6 in the first two rounds) and 8 have been players that were either playing NCAA hockey (1) or in a league that traditionally feeds the NCAA (Jr A or US High School) (7).
If the Sabres follow the recent trend, they will take a player from the CHL in the first round. From there, it is 50-50 between CHL players and players that will liekly end up playing NCAA college hockey.
So, I'm expecting the Sabres to look at guys like Dylan McIlrath (Moose Jaw - WHL), Emerson Etem (Medicine Hat - WHL), Quinton Howden (Moose Jaw - WHL), Mark Pysyk (Edmonton - WHL), or Ryan Johansen (Portland - WHL) if they are on the clock at 23 and the stick to their recent draft pattern.
I would be mildly surprised if they too an NCAA or Jr A (ie headed to the NCAA) guy in the 1st and I'd be really surprised if they took a European player, even if he was a CHL-based Euro ala Alexander Burmistrov.
And I'd be completely stunned if they were the team to roll the dice on Kirill Kabanov.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Be careful what you Tweet
Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News had some interesting Tweets yesterday around whether Tim Connolly returns, whether he's popular in the locker room, and what the fan reaction will be if he's back in 2010-11.
Here is my take on the situation:
Sabres fans will likely be cranky heading into 2010-11 because the current management will not make the sweeping changes that fans have clamored for for a while.
And given that the Sabres management didn't listen to the fans (and the media) when they wanted sweeping changes last summer and the team won the division this past season, I could see them rationalizing their approach and convincing themselves that they actually know more about building an NHL team than the fans and media do.
I know it hurts some members of the media to think that way, but it's true!
Every fan (including myself) loves to think that they could run the team better than Golisano, Quinn, and Regier have. But any fan that was envious of the moves that Brian Burke made in Toronto last year might want to reconsider things.
I'm less worried about whether guys like Connolly (or Stafford or Pominville or Roy or Gaustad or Vanek) are back next year. I am not expecting the Sabres to make the big moves I'd like to see until the management structure undergoes a huge makeover.
And yes, I'm extremely jealous of Tampa Bay introducing Steve Yzerman as their new GM. That is a move that I would applaud if Golisano and Quinn had been the ones that got it done.
Here is my take on the situation:
Sabres fans will likely be cranky heading into 2010-11 because the current management will not make the sweeping changes that fans have clamored for for a while.
And given that the Sabres management didn't listen to the fans (and the media) when they wanted sweeping changes last summer and the team won the division this past season, I could see them rationalizing their approach and convincing themselves that they actually know more about building an NHL team than the fans and media do.
I know it hurts some members of the media to think that way, but it's true!
Every fan (including myself) loves to think that they could run the team better than Golisano, Quinn, and Regier have. But any fan that was envious of the moves that Brian Burke made in Toronto last year might want to reconsider things.
I'm less worried about whether guys like Connolly (or Stafford or Pominville or Roy or Gaustad or Vanek) are back next year. I am not expecting the Sabres to make the big moves I'd like to see until the management structure undergoes a huge makeover.
And yes, I'm extremely jealous of Tampa Bay introducing Steve Yzerman as their new GM. That is a move that I would applaud if Golisano and Quinn had been the ones that got it done.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Are the Sabres committed?
Mike Schopp asked if the Sabres are committed to winning the Stanley Cup yesterday.
Personally, I don't question the level of commitment to winning when it comes to guys like Larry Quinn and Darcy Regier. I question whether their approach to how to build a team that is capable of winning the Stanley Cup will ever result in the Sabres ever actually winning the Cup.
I believe that Regier has his plan of attack and he's going to stick with it.
That means that I don't expect him to put together a huge package to acquire a legit #1 center (like if the Penguins actually shop Malkin). I don't expect Regier to give up the king's ransom plus a 1st round pick to acquire Tomas Kaberle to be the PP QB defenseman that this team needs. I don't expect the Sabres to offer a RFA offer sheet to a player that can be a game changer for the Sabres.
I expect Regier to go about building next year's squad like he has gone about things the past few off seasons. I expect the bulk of the roster to return intact. I expect Regier to add a few players that don't cost a ton against the cap and don't cost a ton of the Sabres future to acquire.
So, who will be this year's Grier or Montador or Rivet?
Can Regier pull a Drury or Briere rabbit out of his hat?
Will Regier get out of his comfort zone and cut ties with players that he has drafted and developed, but aren't the kinds of guys that can carry this team to the promised land?
Will Regier get out of his comfort zone and perhaps add a front line player with a Cup ring on his finger?
I hope that Regier will do what is needed. But, I'm not expecting it.
I just can't see Regier "playing out of character".
Personally, I don't question the level of commitment to winning when it comes to guys like Larry Quinn and Darcy Regier. I question whether their approach to how to build a team that is capable of winning the Stanley Cup will ever result in the Sabres ever actually winning the Cup.
I believe that Regier has his plan of attack and he's going to stick with it.
That means that I don't expect him to put together a huge package to acquire a legit #1 center (like if the Penguins actually shop Malkin). I don't expect Regier to give up the king's ransom plus a 1st round pick to acquire Tomas Kaberle to be the PP QB defenseman that this team needs. I don't expect the Sabres to offer a RFA offer sheet to a player that can be a game changer for the Sabres.
I expect Regier to go about building next year's squad like he has gone about things the past few off seasons. I expect the bulk of the roster to return intact. I expect Regier to add a few players that don't cost a ton against the cap and don't cost a ton of the Sabres future to acquire.
So, who will be this year's Grier or Montador or Rivet?
Can Regier pull a Drury or Briere rabbit out of his hat?
Will Regier get out of his comfort zone and cut ties with players that he has drafted and developed, but aren't the kinds of guys that can carry this team to the promised land?
Will Regier get out of his comfort zone and perhaps add a front line player with a Cup ring on his finger?
I hope that Regier will do what is needed. But, I'm not expecting it.
I just can't see Regier "playing out of character".
Monday, May 3, 2010
Off season dream vs reality
The Sabres need an upgrade at center. Heck, even Darcy admitted it in the wrap up press conference.
The Dream: San Jose Sharks C Joe Pavelski - Joe currently leads all playoff goal scorers with 9 and leads the league with 3 Game Winners for the chronically un-clutch Sharks. He is set to becomes a RFA if San Jose doesn't sign him to an extension prior to July 1st.
The Reality: I want to believe that Regier pulls off a deal for a guy like St Louis Blues center David Backes. But the reality is likely to be that the Sabres once again have Tim Connolly & Derek Roy as their top 2 centers......
Another area of need that Regier mentioned was a PP QB Defenseman. Regier even said that they almost landed one at the deadline, but felt the asking price was too steep.
The Dream: I don't want to help the Maple Leafs, but trading for Tomas Kaberle would be pretty dreamy. On the UFA market there will be Sergei Gonchar who would not only bring a solid PP guy, but someone with a Stanley Cup ring, as well.
The Reality: Regier could bank on growth from within and bank on Marc-Andre Gragnani making the jump or he could go the less than premium UFA route and sign Kurtis Foster from Tampa Bay. Foster was signed dirt cheap because he was coming back from a wicked leg/hip injury. But in the regular season, he was 7th in the NHL in PP pts amongst defensemen. Not bad for a guy that cost $600k against the cap.
The Sabres need a back up goalie that Lindy Ruff is comfortable enough with to play him 25+ games to ensure that Ryan Miller is rested for the playoffs.
The Dream: I wouldn't mind the Sabres getting a guy like Dan Ellis that has been a back up, not played a ton, and still put up decent stats. I know that a lot of people will be beating the drum for Marty Biron's return to Buffalo, but I think there are better options out there.
The Reality: I think the Sabres will sign a goalie that they can get on a two-way contract so that they can have a competition between that guy and Jhonas Enroth for the back up job in Buffalo. One guy that might fit that description is Yann Danis who backed up Marty Brodeur this past season. One other option could be trading for a guy like Corey Crawford who has been stuck as the #3 guy in Chicago for a while.
I hope that Darcy and crew have a shocking move, like say when the Sabres traded for Chris Drury, but I'm not holding my breath.
The Dream: San Jose Sharks C Joe Pavelski - Joe currently leads all playoff goal scorers with 9 and leads the league with 3 Game Winners for the chronically un-clutch Sharks. He is set to becomes a RFA if San Jose doesn't sign him to an extension prior to July 1st.
The Reality: I want to believe that Regier pulls off a deal for a guy like St Louis Blues center David Backes. But the reality is likely to be that the Sabres once again have Tim Connolly & Derek Roy as their top 2 centers......
Another area of need that Regier mentioned was a PP QB Defenseman. Regier even said that they almost landed one at the deadline, but felt the asking price was too steep.
The Dream: I don't want to help the Maple Leafs, but trading for Tomas Kaberle would be pretty dreamy. On the UFA market there will be Sergei Gonchar who would not only bring a solid PP guy, but someone with a Stanley Cup ring, as well.
The Reality: Regier could bank on growth from within and bank on Marc-Andre Gragnani making the jump or he could go the less than premium UFA route and sign Kurtis Foster from Tampa Bay. Foster was signed dirt cheap because he was coming back from a wicked leg/hip injury. But in the regular season, he was 7th in the NHL in PP pts amongst defensemen. Not bad for a guy that cost $600k against the cap.
The Sabres need a back up goalie that Lindy Ruff is comfortable enough with to play him 25+ games to ensure that Ryan Miller is rested for the playoffs.
The Dream: I wouldn't mind the Sabres getting a guy like Dan Ellis that has been a back up, not played a ton, and still put up decent stats. I know that a lot of people will be beating the drum for Marty Biron's return to Buffalo, but I think there are better options out there.
The Reality: I think the Sabres will sign a goalie that they can get on a two-way contract so that they can have a competition between that guy and Jhonas Enroth for the back up job in Buffalo. One guy that might fit that description is Yann Danis who backed up Marty Brodeur this past season. One other option could be trading for a guy like Corey Crawford who has been stuck as the #3 guy in Chicago for a while.
I hope that Darcy and crew have a shocking move, like say when the Sabres traded for Chris Drury, but I'm not holding my breath.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
What is likely to happen this off season in Buffalo
I'm fully expecting the biggest change this off season with the Sabres will be the retirement of the slug and the roll out of two new jerseys for 2010-11.
Last off season, Larry Quinn said they did a thorough top to bottom evaluation of the organization and that led to another "Status Quo" type approach to the off season with the core remaining the same and Regier banking on growth from within.
I fully expect the Sabres to approach this off season like they did last off season.
Larry Quinn won't relieve Darcy Regier of his duties and Darcy Regier won't relieve Lindy Ruff of his duties.
I expect Derek Roy & Tim Connolly wto return as the top 2 centers on this team.
The Sabres will likely re-sign Henrik Tallinder to a contract that will appear good this summer with Henrik having a solid 2010-11 season, but will not look as good a year or two down the road.
I would hope that Mike Grier and the Sabres can agree on a new deal.
Toni Lydman might walk as an UFA and the Sabres will either replace him from within with a guy like Mike Weber or they'll get this year's Steve Montador (read a cost effective UFA).
They might deal Drew Stafford, but I doubt it.
Adam Mair, who was waived mid-season, might go to be replaced with Cody McCormick who played well in the Boston series. Matt Ellis is an UFA this summer and he may not be back, as well.
Zack Kassian might earn a roster spot.
Jhonas Enroth might get a shot to back up Ryan Miller or they'll sign another in the glorious line of UFA backups of Lalime and Thibault.
What I'm not expecting is for Regier and company to reevaluate how they want to build their roster and have a lot of turnover with regards to the top 6 forwards and a spot or two on defense.
While many believe that the NHL has slipped on it's commitment to getting obstruction out of the game and the formula for success that worked for the Sabres in the first two years after the lockout will not work as well moving forward, I don't see the Sabres coming to that conclusion this off season and making drastic moves.
I don't see them moving Roy and/or Connolly to get bigger, grittier top 6 centers.
I don't see the Sabres addressing their need for a PP QB defenseman by paying a king's ransom to Toronto for Tomas Kaberle.
I don't see the Sabres trying to acquire a power forward/leader top 6 winger like Shane Doan or Jarome Iginla to improve the playoff scoring of their top 2 lines.
In the end, I don't see the Sabres management "playing out of character" this off season to try and make the fundamental changes to the roster that many outside of the organization believe need to be made if this team is to improve in the postseason a year from now.
On the positive side, how many people felt like Regier built a team that was capable of winning the division this season?
Last off season, Larry Quinn said they did a thorough top to bottom evaluation of the organization and that led to another "Status Quo" type approach to the off season with the core remaining the same and Regier banking on growth from within.
I fully expect the Sabres to approach this off season like they did last off season.
Larry Quinn won't relieve Darcy Regier of his duties and Darcy Regier won't relieve Lindy Ruff of his duties.
I expect Derek Roy & Tim Connolly wto return as the top 2 centers on this team.
The Sabres will likely re-sign Henrik Tallinder to a contract that will appear good this summer with Henrik having a solid 2010-11 season, but will not look as good a year or two down the road.
I would hope that Mike Grier and the Sabres can agree on a new deal.
Toni Lydman might walk as an UFA and the Sabres will either replace him from within with a guy like Mike Weber or they'll get this year's Steve Montador (read a cost effective UFA).
They might deal Drew Stafford, but I doubt it.
Adam Mair, who was waived mid-season, might go to be replaced with Cody McCormick who played well in the Boston series. Matt Ellis is an UFA this summer and he may not be back, as well.
Zack Kassian might earn a roster spot.
Jhonas Enroth might get a shot to back up Ryan Miller or they'll sign another in the glorious line of UFA backups of Lalime and Thibault.
What I'm not expecting is for Regier and company to reevaluate how they want to build their roster and have a lot of turnover with regards to the top 6 forwards and a spot or two on defense.
While many believe that the NHL has slipped on it's commitment to getting obstruction out of the game and the formula for success that worked for the Sabres in the first two years after the lockout will not work as well moving forward, I don't see the Sabres coming to that conclusion this off season and making drastic moves.
I don't see them moving Roy and/or Connolly to get bigger, grittier top 6 centers.
I don't see the Sabres addressing their need for a PP QB defenseman by paying a king's ransom to Toronto for Tomas Kaberle.
I don't see the Sabres trying to acquire a power forward/leader top 6 winger like Shane Doan or Jarome Iginla to improve the playoff scoring of their top 2 lines.
In the end, I don't see the Sabres management "playing out of character" this off season to try and make the fundamental changes to the roster that many outside of the organization believe need to be made if this team is to improve in the postseason a year from now.
On the positive side, how many people felt like Regier built a team that was capable of winning the division this season?
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
RIP 2009-10 Sabres
TBN has post-game audio from Lindy and a bunch of players (including Tim Connolly....)
They also had a little podcast from their trio on-site.
Bucky Gleason also has a decent column on the cracks in the Sabres foundation.
To me, it comes down to the Sabres best players weren't their best players in this series.
Thomas Vanek was solid for me when he was in the lineup with 2 goals 1 assist and +1 in around 7 periods of play.
Ryan Miller was good to great in the bulk of the series.
But, Tim Connolly and Derek Roy will likely be two of the whipping boys for this series. Jason Pominville will more than likely get thrown into that mix, as well.
Moving forward, here are the things that I think the Sabres need get done:
1) They need to get a back up goalie that can play 25 to 30 solid games next season. There was an interesting stat that I read somewhere (I think it was in The Hockey News, but I'm not sure) that the latest Stanley Cup winning goalies all played around 60 games or fewer during the regular season. A rested Ryan Miller would be nice going into the playoffs.
2) They need a head coach that will play the back up goalie 25 to 30 games next season.
3) They need 1st & 2nd line centers that can produce in the playoffs. Tim Connolly isn't that guy. Derek Roy might be able to be the 2nd line center IF they can get a stud #1. But, I'm not 100% sure of that.
4) They need a PP QB defenseman that can make the PP hum. While #3 will help, I think they need a defenseman that can run the PP from the back end. Although, could Tyler Myers be that guy in a year......... Darcy will likely bet on it.
5) They need a shutdown defense pair that can lock down the other team's top line and can kill penalties.
6) Tyler Myers needs a defense partner that can log huge minutes. While Henrik Tallinder looked pretty good on Myers' left this season, I would venture to bet that it was a contract year mirage and I hope the Sabres aren't sucked in. The dream for me would be to lure UFA-to-be defensive monster Anton Volchenkov from Ottawa.
7) The Sabres need Darcy Regier to "play out of character" (I know I'm beating a dead horse with this one.....) and do more than make minor tweaks to the roster this off season. To me, the core of this team is about 50/50 with Myers, Miller, Vanek, and a boatload of good young players (Ennis, Kennedy, Gerbe, etc.) and role players that can get it done (Kaleta, Hecht, McCormick, etc.). They just need a few moves in the right areas to make this team more "playoff ready".
UFA-to-be the Sabres NEED to keep: Mike Grier. Dude blocked a shot with his head. 'Nuff said. Runner up: Matt Ellis. It was tough to come up with a runner up. But, if they can get him back at his bargain basement price, he is a useful role player.
UFA-to-be the Sabres NEED to let walk: Henrik Tallinder. He has contract year written all over him. Runners up: Patrick Lalime & Raffi Torres
Player under contract that most needs a change of scenery: Drew Stafford. Hopefully the Oilers still love him and would give up their 2nd round pick for the guy. Runner up: Paul Gaustad. The Sabres need an upgrade at all their center spots.
Portland Pirates that need to be Sabres in 2010-11: Mike Weber. The Sabres need Weber to step up and fill the whole that will be created if/when Tallinder and/or Lydman walk as UFAs. Runner up: Cody McCormick. Who didn't like what he brought to the table versus Boston?
One guy that a lot of people love that needs to pick it up in 2010-11: Paul Gaustad. Dominating the faceoff dot is not enough. Goose needs to pick it up from his physical play to his offensive production. Runner up: Jason Pominville. 24 goals and 62 pts is not enough for a guy making $5.3M per year.
Big move that is most likely to happen this off season: Lindy Ruff not signing a new deal with the Sabres. I don't think that the Sabres will let Lindy walk. But, I do see Lindy getting fed up and perhaps moving on to a team like the Devils or Flames. Runner up: Tim Connolly gets traded. There are enough teams out there with needs for an offensive minded center (Calgary perhaps...) that Regier finds a home for Tim Connolly.
Big move that is least likely to happen this off season: Sabres acquire a big time #1 center via trade or free agency. Fans will dream of adding guys like RFA Niklas Backstrom in Washington, UFA Patrick Marleau in San Jose, or some other options. But, I don't see Regier and the Sabres being that aggressive this off season.
Most likely game plan for the off season: Same Old Sabres. I fully expect another Darcy Regier era off season where the team makes a tweak here or there and hopes to improve largely due to growth from the players already in the organization and not by importing top 6 forwards or top 4 defensemen from outside.
I hope I'm wrong.
Although, I thought the Sabres didn't do enough this past off season to win the division, so.................
They also had a little podcast from their trio on-site.
Bucky Gleason also has a decent column on the cracks in the Sabres foundation.
To me, it comes down to the Sabres best players weren't their best players in this series.
Thomas Vanek was solid for me when he was in the lineup with 2 goals 1 assist and +1 in around 7 periods of play.
Ryan Miller was good to great in the bulk of the series.
But, Tim Connolly and Derek Roy will likely be two of the whipping boys for this series. Jason Pominville will more than likely get thrown into that mix, as well.
Moving forward, here are the things that I think the Sabres need get done:
1) They need to get a back up goalie that can play 25 to 30 solid games next season. There was an interesting stat that I read somewhere (I think it was in The Hockey News, but I'm not sure) that the latest Stanley Cup winning goalies all played around 60 games or fewer during the regular season. A rested Ryan Miller would be nice going into the playoffs.
2) They need a head coach that will play the back up goalie 25 to 30 games next season.
3) They need 1st & 2nd line centers that can produce in the playoffs. Tim Connolly isn't that guy. Derek Roy might be able to be the 2nd line center IF they can get a stud #1. But, I'm not 100% sure of that.
4) They need a PP QB defenseman that can make the PP hum. While #3 will help, I think they need a defenseman that can run the PP from the back end. Although, could Tyler Myers be that guy in a year......... Darcy will likely bet on it.
5) They need a shutdown defense pair that can lock down the other team's top line and can kill penalties.
6) Tyler Myers needs a defense partner that can log huge minutes. While Henrik Tallinder looked pretty good on Myers' left this season, I would venture to bet that it was a contract year mirage and I hope the Sabres aren't sucked in. The dream for me would be to lure UFA-to-be defensive monster Anton Volchenkov from Ottawa.
7) The Sabres need Darcy Regier to "play out of character" (I know I'm beating a dead horse with this one.....) and do more than make minor tweaks to the roster this off season. To me, the core of this team is about 50/50 with Myers, Miller, Vanek, and a boatload of good young players (Ennis, Kennedy, Gerbe, etc.) and role players that can get it done (Kaleta, Hecht, McCormick, etc.). They just need a few moves in the right areas to make this team more "playoff ready".
UFA-to-be the Sabres NEED to keep: Mike Grier. Dude blocked a shot with his head. 'Nuff said. Runner up: Matt Ellis. It was tough to come up with a runner up. But, if they can get him back at his bargain basement price, he is a useful role player.
UFA-to-be the Sabres NEED to let walk: Henrik Tallinder. He has contract year written all over him. Runners up: Patrick Lalime & Raffi Torres
Player under contract that most needs a change of scenery: Drew Stafford. Hopefully the Oilers still love him and would give up their 2nd round pick for the guy. Runner up: Paul Gaustad. The Sabres need an upgrade at all their center spots.
Portland Pirates that need to be Sabres in 2010-11: Mike Weber. The Sabres need Weber to step up and fill the whole that will be created if/when Tallinder and/or Lydman walk as UFAs. Runner up: Cody McCormick. Who didn't like what he brought to the table versus Boston?
One guy that a lot of people love that needs to pick it up in 2010-11: Paul Gaustad. Dominating the faceoff dot is not enough. Goose needs to pick it up from his physical play to his offensive production. Runner up: Jason Pominville. 24 goals and 62 pts is not enough for a guy making $5.3M per year.
Big move that is most likely to happen this off season: Lindy Ruff not signing a new deal with the Sabres. I don't think that the Sabres will let Lindy walk. But, I do see Lindy getting fed up and perhaps moving on to a team like the Devils or Flames. Runner up: Tim Connolly gets traded. There are enough teams out there with needs for an offensive minded center (Calgary perhaps...) that Regier finds a home for Tim Connolly.
Big move that is least likely to happen this off season: Sabres acquire a big time #1 center via trade or free agency. Fans will dream of adding guys like RFA Niklas Backstrom in Washington, UFA Patrick Marleau in San Jose, or some other options. But, I don't see Regier and the Sabres being that aggressive this off season.
Most likely game plan for the off season: Same Old Sabres. I fully expect another Darcy Regier era off season where the team makes a tweak here or there and hopes to improve largely due to growth from the players already in the organization and not by importing top 6 forwards or top 4 defensemen from outside.
I hope I'm wrong.
Although, I thought the Sabres didn't do enough this past off season to win the division, so.................
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
The bandwagon is getting lighter
Perhaps this Tweet typo from the Sabres.com twitter feed is a sign of things to come.
Or the fact that Cody McCormick is the guy that is getting called up in the event that Matt Ellis can't go after getting blown up by Johnny Boychuk has people down.
On the bright side, at least there is practice ice in Western NY!
Seriously though, I'm not THAT worried.
Sure, the guys that Lindy will run out on the top two lines tonight have combined to produce 1 goal and 3 assists so far this series.
Sure, the Sabres powerplay is 0 for 12 this series.
But two out of the three games in this series have been the really tight, low scoring, one goal games that I've expected.
And even Game 3 was a one goal game before the empty netter for the Bruins.
But the Sabres can win this series. Even without Vanek, they can win by only scoring 2 or 3 goals per game. This team has enough talent to score 2 or 3 a game against this Boston team.
They just need Tim Connolly to end his 20 playoff game goalless drought.
They need their PP to show some signs of life.
They need their best forwards to be their best forwards.
Will it be easy? Heck, no.
But this team does have the players to win 3 out of the next 4. They just need to bare down and get the job done.
Or the fact that Cody McCormick is the guy that is getting called up in the event that Matt Ellis can't go after getting blown up by Johnny Boychuk has people down.
On the bright side, at least there is practice ice in Western NY!
Seriously though, I'm not THAT worried.
Sure, the guys that Lindy will run out on the top two lines tonight have combined to produce 1 goal and 3 assists so far this series.
Sure, the Sabres powerplay is 0 for 12 this series.
But two out of the three games in this series have been the really tight, low scoring, one goal games that I've expected.
And even Game 3 was a one goal game before the empty netter for the Bruins.
But the Sabres can win this series. Even without Vanek, they can win by only scoring 2 or 3 goals per game. This team has enough talent to score 2 or 3 a game against this Boston team.
They just need Tim Connolly to end his 20 playoff game goalless drought.
They need their PP to show some signs of life.
They need their best forwards to be their best forwards.
Will it be easy? Heck, no.
But this team does have the players to win 3 out of the next 4. They just need to bare down and get the job done.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Now is not the time to panic
With Thomas Vanek going down with a "lower body injury" and the team blowing it's first lead after 2 periods all season, more than a few members of the media and fanbase in Sabreland want to hit the panic button.
But I'm not and here's why:
The Sabres scored 3 goals against Boston with Vanek out for the final two periods.
Ryan Miller and the Sabres defense is not going to continue to give up 4 goals (plus an empty netter) against this Bruins team.
Sure, Vanek is likely out for Game 3 and might not be the same if/when he returns.
Sure, Tim Connolly's playoff goalless streak is at 19 games and counting.
But, this team has enough scoring depth to score 2 or 3 goals per game. And that SHOULD be enough to get past the Bruins minus Marc Savard.
But I'm not and here's why:
The Sabres scored 3 goals against Boston with Vanek out for the final two periods.
Ryan Miller and the Sabres defense is not going to continue to give up 4 goals (plus an empty netter) against this Bruins team.
Sure, Vanek is likely out for Game 3 and might not be the same if/when he returns.
Sure, Tim Connolly's playoff goalless streak is at 19 games and counting.
But, this team has enough scoring depth to score 2 or 3 goals per game. And that SHOULD be enough to get past the Bruins minus Marc Savard.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Vanek at the disco
Buffalo became the only home team in the Eastern Conference to win Game 1 with their 2-1 win over Boston last night.
Outside of getting dominated in the 2nd period, Game 1 went as well as the Sabres could hope for.
Thomas Vanek scored for the third straight game after returning from his "lower body" injury.
Ryan Miller was his stellar self with 38 saves and was there when the team needed him in the 2nd period.
Tyler Ennis, Tim Kennedy, and Tyler Myers didn't look like wide eyed rookies.
Craig Rivet blew one past Rask for the game winner.
The Sabres made it 31 games this season where they closed things out without even getting to OT when they are up after 2 periods.
This series likely will continue to be one where the first team to 2 or maybe 3 goals wins. Heck, there might even be one or two 1-0 games.
But, it's nice to have that 1-0 lead and looking at the Pens, Devils, and Caps being in a 1-0 hole.
I don't want to dream too much, but Sabres-Habs with Flyers-Sens would be a nice Eastern Conference Semifinal draw for the Sabres..........
Outside of getting dominated in the 2nd period, Game 1 went as well as the Sabres could hope for.
Thomas Vanek scored for the third straight game after returning from his "lower body" injury.
Ryan Miller was his stellar self with 38 saves and was there when the team needed him in the 2nd period.
Tyler Ennis, Tim Kennedy, and Tyler Myers didn't look like wide eyed rookies.
Craig Rivet blew one past Rask for the game winner.
The Sabres made it 31 games this season where they closed things out without even getting to OT when they are up after 2 periods.
This series likely will continue to be one where the first team to 2 or maybe 3 goals wins. Heck, there might even be one or two 1-0 games.
But, it's nice to have that 1-0 lead and looking at the Pens, Devils, and Caps being in a 1-0 hole.
I don't want to dream too much, but Sabres-Habs with Flyers-Sens would be a nice Eastern Conference Semifinal draw for the Sabres..........
Monday, March 29, 2010
Playoff tickets now on sale
Why are so many people surprised that the Sabres made the playoffs this year?
I'm surprised that they are in 1st place in the division and can finish as high as 2nd in the conference. But, I always figured that this team could make the playoffs since they were 2 wins away from making the playoffs each of the past two seasons.
Now the big question is can they get healthy in the next two weeks?
Torres shed his "Don't hit me" practice jersey today. But, his health is far less important than the health of Connolly & Vanek.
Although, if Ennis, Gerbe, and Mancari can light things up............
I'm surprised that they are in 1st place in the division and can finish as high as 2nd in the conference. But, I always figured that this team could make the playoffs since they were 2 wins away from making the playoffs each of the past two seasons.
Now the big question is can they get healthy in the next two weeks?
Torres shed his "Don't hit me" practice jersey today. But, his health is far less important than the health of Connolly & Vanek.
Although, if Ennis, Gerbe, and Mancari can light things up............
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Tyler Myers >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Jimmy Howard
Detroit goaltender Jimmy Howard is getting loads of Calder Trophy love right now.
I know I'm biased, but what Tyler Myers is doing this season is much more impressive, and Calder-worthy, than what Howard is doing.
Why?
Here are a few reasons:
1) Not only is Tyler Myers a rookie. He is a rookie pro. This is Howard's 5th season as a pro. ADVANTAGE: Myers
2) Howard is playing behind a Detroit team that has made the Stanley Cup Finals the past two seasons. Myers is anchoring the blueline of a Sabres team that has missed the playoffs the past two seasons. ADVANTAGE: Myers
3) Howard is 2nd to Tuuka Rask in rookie goalie GAA & Save%. Myers leads all rookie defensemen in goals, assists, points, and average ice time. Myers is also tied with John Tavares for the 2nd most points amongst all rookies (forwards and defense) and leads all rookies in assists. ADVANTAGE: Myers
4) You can have a legit argument on who the best rookie goalie is between Howard & Rask. There is no legit discussion about the best rookie defenseman this year. ADVANTAGE: Myers
I know it's a homer take, but if Tyler Myers isn't the Calder Trophy winner this year, it will be highway robbery!
I know I'm biased, but what Tyler Myers is doing this season is much more impressive, and Calder-worthy, than what Howard is doing.
Why?
Here are a few reasons:
1) Not only is Tyler Myers a rookie. He is a rookie pro. This is Howard's 5th season as a pro. ADVANTAGE: Myers
2) Howard is playing behind a Detroit team that has made the Stanley Cup Finals the past two seasons. Myers is anchoring the blueline of a Sabres team that has missed the playoffs the past two seasons. ADVANTAGE: Myers
3) Howard is 2nd to Tuuka Rask in rookie goalie GAA & Save%. Myers leads all rookie defensemen in goals, assists, points, and average ice time. Myers is also tied with John Tavares for the 2nd most points amongst all rookies (forwards and defense) and leads all rookies in assists. ADVANTAGE: Myers
4) You can have a legit argument on who the best rookie goalie is between Howard & Rask. There is no legit discussion about the best rookie defenseman this year. ADVANTAGE: Myers
I know it's a homer take, but if Tyler Myers isn't the Calder Trophy winner this year, it will be highway robbery!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
The case for Brad Boyes
There is talk that the St. Louis Blues want to dump RW Brad Boyes who is struggling offensively this season.
Boyes would be a long term addition to the roster as he is under contract for two more years beyond this season at a cap hit of $4 million per season.
The big reason I would be interested in Brad Boyes is because he ended last season in the top 10 of the league in the Campbellnomics stat. Basically, Boyes finished just ahead of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in a stat that rates guys on clutch play.
It's a roll of the dice to add a guy when he's having a bad year. But, Boyes is coming off seasons of 33 and 43 goals and the Sabres could use an upgrade at the 2nd line RW spot with Roy, Vanek, and Pominville all having down years offensively.
If the Sabres could move MacArthur or Stafford for Boyes, I would do it.
Heck, I'd even give up Gerbe straight up for Boyes if the Blues are really desperate.
Boyes would be a long term addition to the roster as he is under contract for two more years beyond this season at a cap hit of $4 million per season.
The big reason I would be interested in Brad Boyes is because he ended last season in the top 10 of the league in the Campbellnomics stat. Basically, Boyes finished just ahead of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in a stat that rates guys on clutch play.
It's a roll of the dice to add a guy when he's having a bad year. But, Boyes is coming off seasons of 33 and 43 goals and the Sabres could use an upgrade at the 2nd line RW spot with Roy, Vanek, and Pominville all having down years offensively.
If the Sabres could move MacArthur or Stafford for Boyes, I would do it.
Heck, I'd even give up Gerbe straight up for Boyes if the Blues are really desperate.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
I beg to differ Mr. Sullivan
Jerry Sullivan lays out some reasons why Darcy Regier should go "All in" at this year's trade deadline on the heels of Ryan Miller's MVP performance at the Olympics.
I will disagree with a few things.
1) Horton is not the player that Sabres fans wish that Stafford would be. Horton is a better goal scorer than Stafford. But, Horton's physical game is almost as streaky as Stafford's and that is a big reason why the Panthers MIGHT consider moving him.
Also, Florida's GM has said that there will NOT be a fire sale......
2) This may not be the right season to go "All In". Miller is under contract for 4 more seasons after this year. Personally, I think it may be a year or two too soon to go all in. Why? Here goes:
A) Our best defenseman is a rookie. I'd rather have him get some more seasoning.
B) Miller has a history of wearing down. He is on pace to play in 71 games this year and he had a heavy workload for Team USA at the Olympics. Next year the Sabres might be able to use Enroth more than they have been able to use Lalime this year.
C) Too many offensive leaders are having down years. Connolly has been good with 55pts in 60 games. But, Pominville, Roy, and Vanek are all having down years offensively.
3) There are no key UFAs-to-be on the roster. Grier, Mair, Ellis, Tallinder, Lydman, and Lalime are the players that are slated to be UFAs after the season. I'd like to see Grier back and you could make an argument for trying to keep Tallinder or Lydman. But, it's not like when they had Briere & Drury staring UFA in the eye making it an obvious "Go for broke" season.
Next year you have Connolly, Rivet, and Montador hitting UFA, so there may be a slight bit more pressure to do something a year from now.
4) You might have more firepower a year from now with Myers & Kennedy growing and perhaps Ennis & Kassian fighting to make the roster as well.
5) I don't see too many really good players available that the Sabres are likely to land that address the needs this team has.
I'm all for going "All In" while Miller is still in his prime.
I'm just not sold on this being the ideal year to do so.
I will disagree with a few things.
1) Horton is not the player that Sabres fans wish that Stafford would be. Horton is a better goal scorer than Stafford. But, Horton's physical game is almost as streaky as Stafford's and that is a big reason why the Panthers MIGHT consider moving him.
Also, Florida's GM has said that there will NOT be a fire sale......
2) This may not be the right season to go "All In". Miller is under contract for 4 more seasons after this year. Personally, I think it may be a year or two too soon to go all in. Why? Here goes:
A) Our best defenseman is a rookie. I'd rather have him get some more seasoning.
B) Miller has a history of wearing down. He is on pace to play in 71 games this year and he had a heavy workload for Team USA at the Olympics. Next year the Sabres might be able to use Enroth more than they have been able to use Lalime this year.
C) Too many offensive leaders are having down years. Connolly has been good with 55pts in 60 games. But, Pominville, Roy, and Vanek are all having down years offensively.
3) There are no key UFAs-to-be on the roster. Grier, Mair, Ellis, Tallinder, Lydman, and Lalime are the players that are slated to be UFAs after the season. I'd like to see Grier back and you could make an argument for trying to keep Tallinder or Lydman. But, it's not like when they had Briere & Drury staring UFA in the eye making it an obvious "Go for broke" season.
Next year you have Connolly, Rivet, and Montador hitting UFA, so there may be a slight bit more pressure to do something a year from now.
4) You might have more firepower a year from now with Myers & Kennedy growing and perhaps Ennis & Kassian fighting to make the roster as well.
5) I don't see too many really good players available that the Sabres are likely to land that address the needs this team has.
I'm all for going "All In" while Miller is still in his prime.
I'm just not sold on this being the ideal year to do so.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Who says Buffalo can't support major league teams
Buffalo News
You have to love it when the fans take over a building on the other side of the country.
I know that speaks a lot to the transplants and the economic issues here in Western NY. But, it is nice to see after the Sabres have to deal with the invading Leafs fans.
Tied for 1st in the East
NHL.com
47 games played 66 points
Tied for 1st in the East with the Capitals and the Sabres have a game in hand.
I guess all the people that were freaking out during the offseason because the Sabres didn't make any huge moves like firing Regier and/or Ruff and didn't turn over the roster big time should be looking up crow pie recipes on the internet.
While I never really expected Regier or Ruff to go, here are some things I've been wrong about so far this season:
- Complaining about the Tim Connolly extension - Tim has stayed healthy (so far) which was my #1 concern with the extension. And while he started off slow, he is on fire right now (a point in 12 straight). I'm really hoping that by the end of next season, I have to eat a huge piece of crow about this one.
- Thinking that the Sabres needed to move Tallinder and/or Hecht - Tallinder has been reborn as Tyler Myers' defense partner and Jochen Hecht has been OK in a variety of roles on LW. The really interesting thing will be what do the Sabres do with Tallinder given that he's an UFA this summer.......
- Doubting that the team had grown up enough or that the locker room had changed enough - I like both the Montador and Grier signings for bringing some grit and veteran presence to the locker room. But, I was worried that it wasn't enough to change the issues that have plagued the Sabres the past two seasons. Thankfully, this year's team hasn't had the major lulls (so far) that the previous two additions have had. Who knows if Montador and Grier (and Myers & Kennedy) have been the difference or it has been the maturation of the "core" of the team. Either way, this team is doing well and I'm glad to see it.
Now let's see if management is willing to add a piece or two before the trade deadline to shore up areas like say a PP QB on defense to help put this team over the top.......
You have to love it when the fans take over a building on the other side of the country.
I know that speaks a lot to the transplants and the economic issues here in Western NY. But, it is nice to see after the Sabres have to deal with the invading Leafs fans.
Tied for 1st in the East
NHL.com
47 games played 66 points
Tied for 1st in the East with the Capitals and the Sabres have a game in hand.
I guess all the people that were freaking out during the offseason because the Sabres didn't make any huge moves like firing Regier and/or Ruff and didn't turn over the roster big time should be looking up crow pie recipes on the internet.
While I never really expected Regier or Ruff to go, here are some things I've been wrong about so far this season:
- Complaining about the Tim Connolly extension - Tim has stayed healthy (so far) which was my #1 concern with the extension. And while he started off slow, he is on fire right now (a point in 12 straight). I'm really hoping that by the end of next season, I have to eat a huge piece of crow about this one.
- Thinking that the Sabres needed to move Tallinder and/or Hecht - Tallinder has been reborn as Tyler Myers' defense partner and Jochen Hecht has been OK in a variety of roles on LW. The really interesting thing will be what do the Sabres do with Tallinder given that he's an UFA this summer.......
- Doubting that the team had grown up enough or that the locker room had changed enough - I like both the Montador and Grier signings for bringing some grit and veteran presence to the locker room. But, I was worried that it wasn't enough to change the issues that have plagued the Sabres the past two seasons. Thankfully, this year's team hasn't had the major lulls (so far) that the previous two additions have had. Who knows if Montador and Grier (and Myers & Kennedy) have been the difference or it has been the maturation of the "core" of the team. Either way, this team is doing well and I'm glad to see it.
Now let's see if management is willing to add a piece or two before the trade deadline to shore up areas like say a PP QB on defense to help put this team over the top.......
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