Archives for August 11, 2011

‘Gragnani, however, figures to face major competition in training camp to get on the ice in the wake of the signings of newcomers Robyn Regehr and Christian Ehrhoff, the new multiyear deals given to Andrej Sekera and Mike Weber and the return of Leopold and Tyler Myers.’

‘What’s Sabres defenseman Marc-Andre Gragnani capable of producing over a full season? Fifty points perhaps? Were the rookie’s late-season heroics just a fluke? Can he continue his clutch play?’

‘Gragnani appeared in a career-high nine regular season games during two call- ups for Buffalo last season, recording a goal and two assists for his first career points.’

‘Gragnani will have a tough test cracking the NHL this year after Buffalo upgraded its defense by adding veterans Robyn Regehr and Christian Ehrhoff.’

“Robitaille, now a Sabres’ broadcaster, will work with Seneca Gaming to develop hockey-related events at its three area casinos, Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel, Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino and Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel. He will also represent Seneca Gaming at various community events during the year including making appearances at Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino immediately after Buffalo Sabres’ home games at HSBC Arena, which is just a few blocks away from the casino.”

“Gragnani followed up his regular season performance with a team-leading seven points (1+6) in Buffalo’s seven-game loss to Philadelphia in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. Gragnani’s six assists were a Sabres rookie record for assists by a defenseman in one playoff series, and he also tied Pierre Turgeon (1988) for rookie points in one series. Despite playing in just seven playoff games, Gragnani’s seven points led all rookie defensemen in the postseason, and he finished fourth in rookie playoff scoring.”