'“We tried different combinations within the last 10 games, 15 games, trying to find a balance, maybe a spark, some continuity within the lines,” Housley said. “Those are all subject to change as we move forward here. And we addressed the situation on Saturday after our game. We pushed forward. We’re trying to find some chemistry, some balance, a spark within those groups, and … [Read more...] about Frustrated by Sabres’ recent failures, Housley blows up all 4 lines
Archives for February 5, 2019
Thrust into adulthood, NHL's youngest players learn as they go
'Young players such as Mittelstadt, who began his professional career last March at 19 years old after one season at the University of Minnesota, often face more challenges away from the rink when adjusting to life in the NHL. They previously relied on their parents or billet families to cook, clean and do laundry.' … [Read more...] about Thrust into adulthood, NHL’s youngest players learn as they go
Sabres recall C.J. Smith from Rochester
'“He deserves a shot to get back and an opportunity,” Sabres coach Phil Housley said. “I like what he brings, the spark and the speed and the skill. Obviously, he’s going to get an opportunity.”' … [Read more...] about Sabres recall C.J. Smith from Rochester
Reeling Sabres hope new lines, defense pairs can help ignite them
'Having compiled an awful 8-14-4 mark in their last 26 games, their marathon slump has surpassed the two-month mark. In their last 10 outings, they’re a dreadful 3-7.' … [Read more...] about Reeling Sabres hope new lines, defense pairs can help ignite them
Sabres reward C.J. Smith with promotion from Amerks
'“He got the right message,” coach Phil Housley said Monday after the Sabres recalled Smith again.' … [Read more...] about Sabres reward C.J. Smith with promotion from Amerks
Tuesday's Minnesota Coverage
Wild-Buffalo game preview (Minneapolis Star Tribune) Sabres face crunch time as Wild come to town (The Sports Xchange) Wild at Sabres preview (NHL.com) Wild Warmup: Minnesota at Buffalo (Wild.com) From the Rink: Wild and Sabres clash in Buffalo on Tuesday (Wild.com) … [Read more...] about Tuesday’s Minnesota Coverage
Housley makes full line changes in practice
'“You can mix the lines up all you want, but if you don’t manage the game and you don’t have a respect for your own end, you’re going to get the same results.”' … [Read more...] about Housley makes full line changes in practice
The Sabres recall C.J. Smith
'Smith did not pout when he was sent back to the AHL in mid-January as he leads Rochester with 18 goals and 23 assists for 41 points in 41 games. Since being sent back down, Smith scored five goals and seven assists for 12 points. The winger had points in seven of the eight games he played.' … [Read more...] about The Sabres recall C.J. Smith
Sabres shake up lines ahead of meeting with Wild
'"Everybody had a role, an identity," Housley said of that early-season shakeup. "But in saying that, I think we were playing the game the right way back then, making good puck decisions, managing our game, our checking detail was really solid, and we got to get back to that."' … [Read more...] about Sabres shake up lines ahead of meeting with Wild
Sabres recall Smith from Rochester
'In his second full professional season, Smith (5'11", 181 lbs., 12/1/1994) is currently leading the Amerks in scoring with 41 points (18+23) in 41 games this season. This is Smith's second recall of the season to Buffalo. Smith has appeared in four games with the Sabres this season, recording his first NHL goal on Jan. 8 against New Jersey.' … [Read more...] about Sabres recall Smith from Rochester