Archives for January 4, 2003

It could be worse for the Buffalo Sabres. At least they are getting paid for their services on the ice. The Ottawa Senators, who the Sabres play Saturday night in Canada's Capital, haven't gotten their pay checks this year. The Sens, who are leading the NHL with 53 points and sporting a 24-9-5 record, host the Sabres in what has been billed the "Bankrupt Bowl." It is a direct clash in how a small market team manages its money. Both the Sabres and Senators have been having problems financially and up until last year, the two teams were often referred to as "twin franchises" for more reasons than one.

'Five of the Sabres' next six games are on the road.'

The Sabres went into last nights game against Carolina tied with the Nashville Predators for the fewest goals scored in the league.

'"Hopefully this snowballs into our next game," Sabres defenseman Brian Campbell said. "We've got to go out and keep getting points."'

'Friday night was the first time Stu Barnes, Ales Kotalik and J.P. Dumont played on the same line. There's no way it will be the last.'

'Most of Hamister's estimated $33 million request is for help with refinancing an arena loan and for improving the facility. The lawmakers stressed that the assistance would go for the arena, and that no state money would go to subsidize player salaries or any other team operating costs.'

'"You can't expect to win playing a third period like that. It's just not going to happen."'

'The Canes spent the night in Buffalo instead of flying to Boston for tonight's game because of bad weather in the Northeast.'