Archives for March 27, 2018

‘”We’re excited to see how he handles himself here,” Botterill said before the Sabres played the Toronto Maple Leafs. “The biggest thing is setting him up for success for next October.”‘

‘But one thing Botterill clearly knows is prospects and how to bring them along. We have no idea if he can sign an NHL free agent or win a trade but we know he can draft and you have to like his philosophies on development.’

‘”It felt good,” said Eichel, who gave a fist pump and hit the Air Canada Centre glass after opening the scoring. “I’ve kind of been gripping my stick a little, maybe trying to make the cute play. I thought I just worked tonight. That was kind of the attitude I came into the game with, just work hard and take care of our own end, compete, battle and see what happens.’

‘Drafted with the No. 8 overall pick in 2017, Mittelstadt completed his freshman year at the University of Minnesota this month. He finished second for Minnesota with 30 points in 34 games. He scored 11 times and added 19 assists while earning a spot on the Big Ten All-Freshman team. The center tied for the Minnesota lead with four power-play goals and was tied for second with 95 shots.’

‘”He’s got some quick mitts for sure,” said defenseman Brendan Guhle, who skated with Mittelstadt in development camp last summer at HarborCenter. “He’s a good player, so quick, has a good shot. It’s great we were able to get him signed.”‘

‘Former Sabres Danny Gare, Rene Robert and Derek Smith are among those expected to be on hand. The cost is $20 at the door.’