Archives for March 29, 2011

Miller coming up big at right time

‘"It’s nice this time of year to have a little stretch where you’re recognized like that," Miller said after practice Monday in HSBC Arena. "It lines up with the way we’ve been playing as a team, really paying attention to detail and with good emotion in the game. I guess that’s exactly what we need this time of year. A goalie a lot of times can be a difference-maker but is really a reflection of the way the team plays."’

Leopold’s doctor’s appointment postponed

‘"He’s an all-around great defenseman and somebody we’ve relied on in a lot of situations," said Steve Montador, who has spent much of the season as Leopold’s defense parter. "As we’ve gone through injuries before, it just gives somebody an opportunity to fill in the spots where he was so good at. … It can be a good thing for guys to step up."’

Leafs’ Reimer knows Miller well

‘“I remember that and how the whole crowd was giving him the (derisive) Miller chant,” Reimer, a Manitoba native, said. “You look up to a guy who has had that much success and works that hard. I don’t think anything has been given to him. You admire what he has done. Hopefully I can do that in my career and be as successful as he is.”’

Leafs’ MacArthur staying positive

‘Now, the Leafs have to worry about Sabres goalie Ryan Miller, who has two shutouts in his past three games and on Monday was named the NHL’s first star of the week. Miller has 24 career wins in 31 decisions against the Leafs.’

Sabres relish chance to ‘bury’ the Leafs

‘“Any time you play a division rival it’s a fun game, but now that the playoffs are on the line it makes it even more fun,” said Pominville following his team’s practice Monday at HSBC Arena. “They won a big one last time against us in their building. Their building was rocking and it was a fun place to play in and I’m sure it will be that way again tomorrow. Everybody is excited about the opportunity to push them down.”‘

Pegula not subtle about expectations

‘”I think when a new owner steps in and says that, that’s a very strong message,” said Lindy Ruff, the Sabres’ head coach since 1997. “Terry has an incredible passion for the game, he has an incredible passion for the Sabres, and that has given us that little extra push.”‘