Archives for December 6, 2005

'On Tuesday, two key pieces of the Sabres puzzle looked close to returning, as goaltender Ryan Miller and co-captain Daniel Briere each skated during practice.'

‘Thorburn played in two games with the Buffalo Sabres after being recalled on December 2nd from Rochester. He made his NHL debut on Friday against the San Jose Sharks and also played on Sunday in Buffalo’s 6-4 win over the Colorado Avalanche. In the victory, Thorburn earned his first NHL assist/point.’

'"Those (injuries) are huge losses for us, but we put a lot of hard work into everything," winger Paul Gaustad said. "It shows the character we have in the locker room. Being desperate to win those two points every night has given us our little streak here."'

'"Our defence is healthy," said Ruff. "We got Lydman back and McKee. As soon as they came back, we've been on a tear."'

‘Buffalo coach Lindy Ruff said Dumont will be operated on Thursday in Montreal. Ruff doesn’t expect Dumont to be in game shape until after the league breaks for the Olympic Games in mid-February.’

'You won't find a single Sabre among the top 50 in scoring, but you will find a dozen players with 10 or more points.'

'“As far as Buffalo has been telling me, my awareness, my defensive play, I’m going to be known as a defensive forward and once in a while obviously fight, and take on any role that is necessary to help the team be successful,” said Thorburn before his call-up during interview after an Americans November 17th game against the Chicago Wolves.'

'I've put my own doubts about this team aside. They are just playing so gritty and with so much heart I have to believe this team is for real.'