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Archives for December 16, 2016

Sabres Notebook: Healthy defense; USA Hockey camp opens

‘The Sabres have had their full complement of defensemen just eight times this season. It hasn’t happened since Nov. 1, but it is possible coach Dan Bylsma will have everyone at his disposal Friday when the New York Islanders visit KeyBank Center. Eight blue-liners practiced Thursday, which should give Bylsma choices of which six to dress.’

Sabres captain Brian Gionta thriving in 15th season

‘Still, Gionta, a free agent after the season, has no plans to retire. “I love playing the game,” Gionta said. “I love being around it. I still feel good doing it. I still feel good every day. Until that stops, the mindset won’t change.”’

Sabres’ defense finally getting healthy

‘“We haven’t been at that situation the whole year long,” said coach Dan Bylsma, whose Sabres host the New York Islanders on Friday. “Frankly, it’s a new situation for us here at the 29-game mark. I think each defenseman that’s stepped up and played for us has brought a little bit different element.”‘

Kyle Okposo excited to play Islanders

‘”It’s going to be fun, I’m excited to play these guys,” Okposo said Thursday. “I still talk to quite a few of those guys. It’s going to be weird playing them, but once we get into the game it’s going to be fun.”‘

Sabres found success rolling lines against LA

‘O’Reilly, the NHL leader in ice time among forwards, was just third among Sabres forwards at 17:08, placing him behind Jack Eichel (18:11) and Marcus Foligno (17:38). Ristolainen entered the game having played 29-plus minutes in four straight contests, but he only skated 22:04. That was second to Dmitry Kulikov, who skated 23:45.’