‘Zemgus Girgensons and Johan Larsson are both under contract for this year but are getting pushed for their spots on the roster. It’s possible the Sabres could look to waive or trade either of them prior to the season if they are looking to use spots for young players.’
The Sabres Report - September 23, 2018
The Wraparound: Maple Leafs 3, Sabres 2 ★
‘The defense pairs seemed to be the likely top six of the regular season. That would be Marco Scandella-Rasmus Ristolainen, Rasmus Dahlin-Jake McCabe and Nathan Beaulieu-Zach Bogosian.’
Sabres’ Zach Bogosian believes he has ‘whole new level to bring’ ★
‘“I think I’m working my way to get there,” Bogosian said. “Anytime you’ve been injured or been off for an extended period of time, it’s going to take a little while to get things back. I have a whole new level to bring. I can be a lot more effective than I’ve been in the past. I’m looking forward to the challenge that’s in front of me.”’
Meet the NHL goalie who turned game-day retirement into an art form ★
‘His chance suddenly vanished, Smith soon did likewise. After the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” Smith instructed Buffalo trainer Frank Christie to open the gate to the players’ bench. Skating onto the ice as the opening faceoff loomed, Smith partook in a farewell twirl, waving theatrically toward Sabres owner Seymour Knox, who was sitting behind the bench. And with that, the goalie headed to the dressing room, removed his gear and announced his retirement. Frank Orr, the Star hockey writer, called it an “exit with flair.”’
Sunday's Toronto Coverage ★
Leafs win a tough fourth pre-season game (Toronto Sun)
McElhinney not feeling the heat as Sparks tries to win job as Leafs’ backup goalie (Toronto Sun)
For Der-Arguchintsev, contract with the Leafs is just one piece of the puzzle (Toronto Sun)
Meet the NHL goalie who turned game-day retirement into an art form (Toronto Star)
Why being a Leafs first-round pick is no longer a curse (Toronto Star)
Emerson Clark makes impact under radar in Maple Leafs’ camp (Toronto Star)
Backup plan in net among Maple Leafs’ toughest calls (Toronto Star)
Carrick faces “make-or-break” moment as blue line battle heats up (TSN)
New deal adds to Der-Arguchintsev’s confidence in Leafs camp (TSN)
Pre-season assignment a sign of the load Auston Matthews can carry (Sportsnet)
Leafs vs. Sabres Pre-Season Takeaways (MapleLeafs.com)
Photo gallery (Buffalo News)
Maple Leafs remain perfect in pre-season after win over Sabres ★
‘Kyle Okposo and Jeff Skinner scored for the Sabres. Carter Hutton played the entire game and turned away 28-of-31 shots in the defeat.’
Maple Leafs defeat Buffalo 3-2 ★
‘The Sabres outshot Toronto 14-7 in the third period, but could not get the equalizer. Calvin Pickard took over in net in the third for Toronto and stopped all 14 shots on goal in the win.’
Sabres' youngsters are learning valuable lessons in the preseason ★
‘Justin Bailey is trying to make a difference and had two golden opportunities in front on Calvin Pickard, but was stopped. This was Bailey’s second preseason game and I’ve liked how he’s used his speed in both of them. The problem is he musty convert the chances that he’s earning around the net.’
Nylander playing with a different fire ★
‘Nylander is not only winning battles along the board and making the heads up plays, he’s engaging and starting them.’
Five observations from Sabres 3-2 preseason loss to the Maple Leafs ★
‘And while we’re at it — just keep the Skinner – Eichel – Reinhart line together. After giving Tage Thompson a well deserved look on the top line to start the game, Sabres head coach Phil Housley moved Reinhart to the top trio in the second period. From that point on they were the Sabres most effective line. Barring a surprise, I’d bet these tree are on a line together when the puck drops against the Bruins on October 4th.’