|
SABRES PROSPECTS ARE CREATING A BUZZ |
|
|
|
|
|
The Buffalo Sabres have to be thrilled at the reception that their kids have created in Lewiston, NY this week. The Sabres circus pulled in to town on Wednesday, and two twin big top tents are busting at the seams with curious fans.
This is not your average travelling roadshow. This camp is heavy on the substance and light on the style.
The rookies and prospects are making fast friends on the Niagara Escarpment.
"We have some outstanding young players here. I am very impressed with Weber, Ennis, Butler, Myers, of course Gerbe, and Kennedy, too", one NHL scout confided in me.
"Buffalo are in good shape for years to come".
Weber is throwing his big body around with authority. He looks to be so much more confident than he waas at this time last season. He played 12 games in The Show this season and he was a +10. Weber wants his GM and coaches to know that he wants a full time gig this season, not injury call-up duties. A great sign of this to come for the former Amerk. If he keeps playing like this, the training camp battle for the #6 and #7 D will be extremely competitive.
Ennis, the Medicine Hat Tiger star, has this observer thinking good thoughts. The kid has fast hand and fast feet. He creates for his linemates and can beat Dmen wide with his speed. I like what I see of him early on.
Gerbe has been a joy to observe so far in this camp. He flies around the ice with the greatest of ease. He's moving the puck and winning one on one battles. Yeah, that too-- the kid can fill the net!
Myers admitted to me that he was rubbing off the rust of not having skating in a month in his first two days at Niagara.
"I was a little slow early on due to the time away from the rink. I felt better today".
Kid looked like a polished stone today.
****
Don't be surprised if the Sabres are active at the UFA deadline. I heard it from a reliable friend tonight that they there "are looking for key additions" at the deadline.
The Sabres will stay "$8 million above the ceiling and $8 million below the cap". $48-$50 million seems to be the neighbourhood that they will choose to live in.
The RFAs are qualified, and will likely afccept their deals. Goose and Paille will likely double their respective salaries, while Bernier will get a 5% kiss, and MacArthur will get a 10% bump.
The forward ranks are thick and decisions will have to be made to create even numbers. Subtract a forward. Don't renew Kalinin and Teppo, and suddenly, there is a budget to go shopping with.
The blueline is in desperate need of a stay at home mauler / shot blocker.
****
It was very cool to see the younsters signing autographs for the kids in attendance.
Myers, Gerbe, Ennis, Schutz, Enroth, Kennedy, all got in on the act. Great expression of support for the working man and his kids.
****
***
Join the Discussion:
»