Archives for June 2011

'McCutcheon spent three seasons as the head coach for Buffalo's AHL affiliate, the Rochester Americans, before joining the Sabres in 2000. He complied a 128-82-9 record with Rochester, winning back-to-back Western Conference titles and making two appearances in the Calder Cup Finals.' … [Read more...] about Buffalo, associate coach McCutcheon part ways

'“It was a difficult decision, but I agree that at this point in my career, it is time to move on to something different,” McCutcheon said. “I’m looking forward to exploring different career options, including any offered by the Sabres’ organization.”' … [Read more...] about McCutcheon out as Sabres top assistant coach

'“This was a difficult decision for me to make,” Sabres Head Coach Lindy Ruff added. “After meeting with Brian, I felt that we needed to go in a different direction with my staff moving forward. It has been a pleasure to have Brian as part of my team over the past 11 years. I want to thank Brian personally for his input and dedication to the development of … [Read more...] about Sabres to not renew contract of Associate Coach Brian McCutcheon

'Drafted 23rd overall, the 19-year-old had a Canadian Junior career-high 40 points (six goals, 34 assists) in 63 games with Edmonton of the Western Hockey League last season. Pysyk was captain of the team and bounced back from a foot injury that hindered him the previous year.' … [Read more...] about Sabres sign 2010 1st-round pick, D Mark Pysyk

'“Mark is a very intelligent hockey player who has played in all situations in junior,” said Regier. “He is a very strong skater with good puck moving abilities, and is developing into a very solid two-way defenseman.”' … [Read more...] about Sabres sign 2010 First-Round Pick Mark Pysyk

'"I think it's been a long time coming for Kevin," chimed in Portland assistant coach Eric Weinrich, who has been with the Pirates as a player or coach for five seasons. "I think he's proven he's a winner, and he's proven it year after year since he's been (in Portland). I think it's long overdue for him to get a legitimate shot, and I couldn't be happier for … [Read more...] about Dineen hiring: ‘It’s about time’

'"My last three years with the Buffalo Sabres, working for Mr. [Terry] Pegula and specifically for Darcy Regier, has been a really engaging, great learning experience for me," Dineen said at his introductory news conference. "I feel that my time with Darcy has been a large part of my evolution as a coach."' … [Read more...] about As Dineen exits, Sabres closer to AHL decision

'The 47-year-old Dineen replaces Peter DeBoer, who was fired on April 10 after three seasons at the helm. Last year, the Panthers finished with the worst record in the Eastern Conference at 30-40-12 and missed the playoffs for the 10th straight time.' … [Read more...] about Panthers name Dineen head coach

'“We interviewed and talked to a lot of different people about this opening,” Tallon said. “The minute I met Kevin, I knew he was the guy. You looked into his eyes, you could see passion, you could see caring, compassion, integrity, class, dignity, all those things we want our players to be like.”' … [Read more...] about Florida Panthers introduce Kevin Dineen as new head coach

'Dineen doesn't think it was a coincidence that Panthers scout Pete Mahovlich, a close family friend, was dispatched to watch his Pirates in the playoffs just after the NHL regular season concluded and General Manager Dale Tallon had fired coach Pete DeBoer on April 10.' … [Read more...] about Panthers welcome Dineen as franchise’s 11th coach

'"I thought he was going to leave last year," said Buffalo General Manager Darcy Regier, whose Sabres are Portland's parent team. "You get a sense when somebody is ready. For me, Kevin was ready a year ago, and now he's even more ready."' … [Read more...] about Florida Panthers new head coach Kevin Dineen recognizes organization’s opportunity

'“I have a place that I certainly prefer where they’ll be,” said Dineen. “I’ve worked in Portland. I know the quality of life there for the players is great for them to develop as players. I know (the Panthers) haven’t had a strong fan base there, but (the fans) are passionate about hockey.”' … [Read more...] about Dineen: A Panthers-Pirates affiliation a very realistic possibility

'The Portland Pirates came into the 2010-11 season with high hopes centered around an influx of new talent, including eventual Rookie of the Year winner Luke Adam, former Michigan State star Corey Tropp, and a duo of defensive stalwarts in Alex Biega and Nick Crawford. They overachieved by winning the Atlantic division and reaching the conference semi-final, in large part … [Read more...] about AHL players for Buffalo Sabres looking to play in NHL for 2011-12

'The Panthers made the announcement at a press conference Wednesday at the BankAtlantic Center. Dineen replaces Pete DeBoer, who was fired on April 10, one day after completing his third season behind the Florida bench.' … [Read more...] about Panthers introduce Kevin Dineen as new head coach

'“For the last several years, Kevin has been regarded as one of the top head coaches in the American Hockey League, leading the Portland Pirates to the AHL postseason five out of six years as the club’s coach. He is a player’s coach who understands our team’s philosophy and direction and someone who will guide the Panthers to future success.”' … [Read more...] about Kevin Dineen Named Head Coach Of The Florida Panthers