Archives for June 30, 2006

‘”We expect they’re strongly interested in getting something done, and Ryan’s a team guy,” agent Mike Liut said Thursday from his office in Birmingham, Mich. “Something will be worked out.”‘

‘McKee’s a warrior who warrants a substantial increase from the Sabres, but it has to come within the small-market context. Regier should meet McKee halfway between his current salary ($1.6 million) and the speculated market price. Then it would be up to McKee to decide whether he wants to stay.’

‘The primary logo, however, will be completely different from the original. It will feature the head and hunched upper half of a charging buffalo rather than a full buffalo perched above two crossed swords. The secondary insignia – a capital B pierced by a sword – is the same as the Sabres’ current third jersey, but the letter is gold instead of red.’

‘McKee also will head for free agency after turning down a multi-year offer from the Buffalo Sabres believed to be worth just slightly more than $2 million per season. “I’m very disappointed with Buffalo,” McKee, 28, said in a phone interview. “I understand they might want to stay within a budget, but you also want to feel appreciated for all the years of service you put in there.”‘

'Picking 24th overall, the Buffalo Sabres entered the 2006 draft with their lowest first-round pick in team history. The Sabres had a total of six picks at their disposal, and looked to address needs both in net and on the blue line. At the end of the day, they met their goal by coming away with three rearguards, two centers, and a goaltender who will be vying for the chance to wear the blue and gold sweater in a few years’ time.'

'Did you get any indication from the Sabres management and scouting staff that they were interested in you before the Draft? DP: I spoke to them two times and they showed a big interest. But I mean, they always said I was going to be picked like second (round), late second. So I was surprised to be picked so early.'