13 has been an unlucky number thus far for Buffalo's first round pick in this year's NHL Draft.
Zack Kassian, the 13th pick overall, has yet to make his debut on the ice at Sabres Rookie camp. He's been sidelined with a wonky foot, and will hopefully participate in the scrimmages on Thursday and Friday at NU.
***
What to do with Tyler Myers? The Sabres can allow him to pass 'Go', collect his two hundred dollars, and proceed the route of Schenn, Doughty, and Bogosian. Making the jump from juniors to The National League is no small feat. Myers and the Sabres realize this. he thinks he's ready for the challenge, however, his training camp performance- or lack thereof- will tell Lindy and Darcy if he indeed belongs.
They can decide to ship him back to Kelowna.
For now, he's in Western New York. On Wednesday night, Myers did his best Randy Johnson impersonation by throwing out the first pitch at a Buffalo Bisons game. Hockeybuzz.com afficionado, Charlie Roberts spoke with the Kelowna Rocket about his experiences in rookie camp.
Myers throws out first pitch at Bisons game
By Charles Roberts
He stands about two inches taller than the gangly, but long-time powerhouse pitcher Randy Johnson.
And that’s about the only comparison you will ever see drawn between Johnson and the Buffalo Sabres 19-year-old defenseman Tyler Myers.
“It was a nice catch by the mascot,” Myers said with a chuckle, after whimsically lobbing the first pitch about four feet above the strike zone.
Although his pitching skills certainly could use some polishing, or a complete makeover, the youngster knows the Sabres expect big things from him next season. Tonight was probably a well-deserved break.
“It’s exciting for sure,” Myers said. “I’ve been here for about two weeks now and it’s been a lot of fun ever since I got here, but throwing the opening pitch here was definitely a fun experience and I enjoyed it.”
“First time (throwing out a first pitch) for me and it was exciting.”
As for his on-the-ice preparation, Myers knows the Sabres will be looking for him to step up in a big way. It was pretty much a foregone conclusion that he would not see any time in the NHL last season, as the then rookie was simply too light at 207 pounds (6-foot-8).
A year and 13 pounds later, the now 220-pound Myers believes his game, mindset and physique are where they need to be.
“Obviously the year of experience helps me out a lot,” Myers said. “I’m a lot more comfortable just knowing what’s coming. Last year I was a bit overwhelmed. Like I said, I’ve settled in and things are getting a lot more comfortable.”
As for his weight--- let’s get one thing clear. Myers still has a way to go. The lengthy teenager who the Sabres hope will be the cornerstone of their defense for years to come knows it too. Myers has progressed, but knows that it’s been a difficult task packing on pounds, but is hopeful with his gains (in both age and weight) will make the road ahead an easier course.
“I’d have to say just gaining weight over the years,” Myers said, when asked what has been the most difficult task he’s faced entering year two. “At my height it’s hard to put on the pounds, but hopefully now, I’ve finally stopped growing up and I can start growing out.”
“I’m going to be here for a week after the summer camp working with them (the trainers).”
Join the Discussion:
»