Archives for April 2007

'But Briere claimed there was little chance the mighty Sabres would get too full of themselves anymore. While maintaining an intense focus is difficult for an 82-game schedule, he suggested the postseason commands total awareness. “With the way everybody’s driven to win and reach our goal, we’re in the playoffs now,” Briere said. “I … [Read more...] about Sabres aim to muffle the brash section

'Yes, this is definitely the year.' … [Read more...] about Buffalo enters the postseason the way it entered the regular season, as the team to beat

'“Probably a nightmare,” is how left winger Thomas Vanek imagined defenders view Afinogenov. “It’s definitely a different game with him. He takes it, skates all over and creates a lot more chances for us.”' … [Read more...] about Afinogenov leaves foes blurry-eyed

'But the Isles’ best all-around player? Jason Blake.' … [Read more...] about With Blake on the loose, NewYork is dangerous

'Sabres will advance if ... They don’t get too full of themselves and don’t give the Islanders an opportunity to build confidence. The Sabres should be able to dominate the Islanders by rolling four potent lines against a questionable defense.' … [Read more...] about Blue line jells on schedule for postseason push

'The Islanders will win if ... Their goalie steals the series. DiPietro’s status is uncertain, and Dubielewicz remains unproven. That may be way too much to ask against a team like Buffalo in the playoffs.' … [Read more...] about Isles may be long on grit but short in goal

'“We showed it at the team dinner, and the guys loved it,” Quinn said. “It tugs at your heart and gives you goose bumps.”' … [Read more...] about Video to kick off Sabres&#8217 quest for the Cup

'The Sabres' outlook has changed dramatically since last season. So has their road to the championship. But, Ruff said, "The approach won't be any different." They won't take any team for granted. They won't take any game lightly. "We've been preparing for this the whole year," Briere said. "I can't wait for it to … [Read more...] about Sabres can't sneak up on NHL teams this year

'"He'll definitely help us," teammate Jason Pominville said. "He brings a ton of skill, that's for sure. He's such a creative player out there. ... Adding him is definitely something we're excited about."' … [Read more...] about Connolly's comeback full circle

'But in Wade Dubielewicz, a backup goalie who rescued the Isles’ season, Buffalo is preparing for a largely unknown commodity. Dubielewicz played two periods against Buffalo this season, but has just 17 National Hockey League starts in threeseasons. He is, however, hot when it counts, and the Sabres would prefer to get to him early rather than allowing Dubielewicz to … [Read more...] about Buffalo enters first round with high expectations, stacked roster

'“You don’t want to overprepare, but you want to be ready,” he said. “You’ve got to know what the players can handle. Drive home two or three real important points. They’ve still got to go out there and play, they’ve got to have fun playing, and they’ve got to work hard. There’s going to be some good bounces and some … [Read more...] about Players change, and so does Lindy

'Our panel of experts break down the opening series and come up with the same verdict: Sabres win it easily.' … [Read more...] about Our experts say Sabres will win it easily

'Connolly credited teammates with keeping his spirits up. “It’s not easy to go through, but I had a great group of guys on the team supporting me,” he said. “Family and friends all helped out through it. It makes recovery a lot easier.”' … [Read more...] about After Lost Season, Sabre Returns for Cup Run

'Sabres in 6.' … [Read more...] about Islanders vs. Sabres

After Lost Season, Sabre Returns for Cup Run (New York Times) Smyth adds Oil to Isles' fire in bid to foil Sabres (New York Daily News) Underdog Isles ready (New York Post) Underdog? Really? (New York Newsday) He's not Tiger, but Blake's now a major player (New York Newsday) Islanders vs. Sabres (New York Newsday) NY Islanders at Buffalo (AP) Sabres host Islanders in … [Read more...] about Thursday’s New York Coverage (Updated 1:00 p.m.)