First the rumor, then the news...

I think the Sabres are as likely to acquire JR, as they are to acquire Barry Bonds. It's not going to happen. That's the ANTI-Sabres guy. The locker room is way too good to bring in "Styles".

Ok...now to the news:

Sabres goaltender Mika Noronen has accepted a conditioning assignment with the Rochster Americans. That might not seem like all that much, but it could be a precursor to a trade deadline deal, involving a Sabres netminder.

Earlier this week, Noronen told the Buffalo News that the AHL wasn't something he'd consider...saying he'd proven he could play in the NHL. This has been Noronen's story for a while now. Now...the story has changed. Noronen is willing to go.

Hmmm...

Noronen is playing for the Amerks tonight, and then again on Friday night. Why the change of heart? Why would a goaltender, consistentlyturn down a chance to play and get some work in, and then all of a sudden change his tune?

Is it possible that he'sgetting into shape for a trade?

Is it that he's getting into shape so he can become the Sabres backup, meaning Martin Biron is on the block?

Is he trying ANYTHING he can (being a good soldier) in hopes of sparking a trade?

Anything is possible. One thing is for certain...Noronen wants something to happen. He doesn't want to sit in press boxes anymore, and his conditioning assignment might just help him out. It might mean nothing...but itdoes makea goaltender trade for the Buffalo Sabres look more likely.

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- I hope you all appreciate the reference to LOST in the title...if not? You should be watching that show.