SABRESPACE

‘His transformation from raw prospect to hero did not happen overnight.’

‘The larger takeaway is that Kim Pegula seems to be influencing the organization’s zero-tolerance policy for anything resembling sexual misconduct. Her leadership sends a strong message that the “boys-will-be-boys” culture that has pervaded many businesses, in and outside of sports, will not be tolerated.’

‘Only one team in history – the 2016-17 Philadelphia Flyers – has had a 10-game winning streak during a season and failed to make the playoffs that spring. Are the Sabres going to become No. 2? An improvement from 62 points to, say, 88 points that would have been notable in October will now be bitterly disappointing in April.’

‘”I think it’s going to be really important,” coach Phil Housley said. “We talked about it – to really enjoy themselves, re-energize, reboot, get ready for the second-half push in the season. At the same time, when we get back we’re entering three games in four nights, and we’re starting on the road.”‘

‘If the Sabres do well over the next couple seasons and Housley manages to establish himself as a stellar head coach, that hall of fame status won’t be the driving reason behind it. Rather, there’s another piece of memorabilia in his basement that provides a clue into a little-known part of Housley’s career that much more neatly translates into what he’s doing today. It’s a circular framed plaque with an image of a pony holding a hockey stick above the words “Coach Phil Housley.”’

‘”Longevity is a huge accolade for an equipment manager,” Williams, who joined the Sabres in 2005, told The Buffalo News. “That’s how you earn an All-Star invite at our level. It’s not based on performance. Our performance is driven by longevity. If you aren’t good you’re gone. That’s our measuring stick. It’s nice to be recognized for that.”‘

‘Both the NHL and the NHL Players Association issued statements that logistics just don’t make it feasible to have a tournament 20 months from now, but that they’re working toward a framework for future international play.’