Archives for April 18, 2021

‘“It’s very, very important for the young players to take ownership in the situations we’re in but the situation that everybody’s in,” said interim coach Don Granato. “You’re going to need everybody to be successful as a franchise. It’s not just your star players and your top players. It’s depth. Teams that win around the league have depth.”‘

‘”And so we’ve flipped that and said, ‘We’re not trying to survive here. We’re going to try to get better. And certainly we’re going to focus on giving you ways that we can win this hockey game. But get better, hang on to the puck, make a play, don’t just feel pressure and throw it (away).’ So I think the guys find enjoyment in that.”‘

‘Though the setback exposed some possible weaknesses, one game does not spoil what’s been a strong turnaround under interim coach Don Granato. Buffalo is 5-3-3 over its last 11 games and almost completed another comeback.’

‘So while that topic will have to be addressed in the coming months, there’s no doubt teams out of the race like the Sabres have paid particular attention to what’s gone on in their current division but have also noted what’s gone on in their normal one. You have to be concerned on both fronts.’