Archives for July 3, 2007

'"I knew that the decision [to sign with the Devils] would be a hockey decision." Zubrus said via conference call. "I want to win and that's why I wanted to come here. I believe in this team and the success they've had."' … [Read more...] about Devils sign Danius Zubrus

'The source does confirm that a couple of weeks after a meeting between Sabres management and Drury's agent, Mark Witkin, had taken place in Boston, that the Sabres' efforts to consummate the deal with Drury were rebuffed by the player's camp, with Drury's agent telling the Sabres that Drury at that point - about six weeks into the season - would rather "concentrate on hockey" … [Read more...] about WGR Confirms Buffalo News Report About Drury

'So this is the thanks we get as fans. We watch all the games on television, buy every ticket to each home game last season and even purchase all the new “buffa-slug” merchandise to show support. Now the team’s two biggest stars are gone? It almost sounds like the John Rigas era all over again.' … [Read more...] about Management pulls plug on special team

'It's believed six teams -- Washington, Carolina, Los Angeles, Buffalo, Atlanta and the Islanders -- have shown an interest in Comrie, who made $3 million last season...Former 67's captain Randy Cunneyworth is ready to leave the Sabres organization and is a candidate to join the Senators' staff.' … [Read more...] about One down, one to go?

'“We’re going to be less competitive without Danny Briere and Chris Drury,” said Regier, who paused before continuing in a voice filled with emotion with a face that conveyed anguish. “But the sky’s not falling. This is a good hockey club. We’ll be good. We’ll figure out a way -- somehow, some way -- to be better. But people … [Read more...] about Sabres put on brave face

'Drury and the Sabres decided early last season to meet in Boston, where Drury’s agent, Mark Witkin, is based. They discussed an extension for the pending free agent, the source said. The Sabres started the talks with a four-year, $20 million offer. Drury’s camp countered with $23 million over four years. The parties agreed to meet in the middle, the source … [Read more...] about Industry source says Drury agreed to contract last fall

'“We’ll have to find our way through it. There are a lot of guys on our team who can rise up and step in. I’m definitely ready to step into a bigger role.”' … [Read more...] about Players have varied reactions to Drury, Briere departures

'Now you know that the Sabres could have kept Drury and co-captain Daniel Briere for just more than $10 million per season in combined salary, which was about $3.5 million less per year than they received from their new teams.' … [Read more...] about Blame rests solely with team brass

'“I don’t see myself picking up any of their merchandise, even if it is at a reduced price. They aren’t around anymore, and it’s not worth it even if they were giving it away,” he said.' … [Read more...] about Drury, Briere leave heartache, cut-rate jerseys

Adding Big Names Stirs Big Hopes on the Rangers (New York Times) Blue chips (New York Post) A bit of puck luck for Drury (Newsday) New Rangers Drury, Gomez think New York can win Stanley Cup (White Plains Journal News) Gomez, Drury feel part of something big (Newark Star Ledger) Rangers won't tip hand (Bergen Record) Rangers' free agents shared same number (AP) New … [Read more...] about Tuesday’s New York Coverage

'"Things evolved ... changed, the marketplace jumped," he said. "The cost of doing of doing business in unrestricted free agency is always extremely high."' … [Read more...] about Drury, Briere shuffle out of Buffalo

'They acknowledged the Sabres could have been more proactive in attempting to re-sign both a year ago and didn't foresee Briere handcuffing their payroll when he received a one-year $5 million contract in arbitration last summer. As free agency approached, Quinn and Regier said signing Drury became the team's top priority because of his leadership skills and because it would be … [Read more...] about Sabres attempt to move forward minus Drury, Briere

'So much for the question, "Which one do we keep: Briere or Drury?" The Sabres showed why they're the worst organization in the league as far as taking care of players and their free agents. As I've mentioned in the past, if you're an unrestricted free agent (UFA) with the Sabres, chances are you can sell your house, pack your bags and move on to your next destination.' … [Read more...] about Ramblings from the first day of free agency

'The Buffalo Sabres held a press conference this afternoon that did little to boast the morale of Sabres Nation. After listening to the Sabres' side of the story, one has to wonder if they are worth believing.' … [Read more...] about It’s simply too hard to believe Quinn and Regier