‘Buffalo is continuing to preach patience heading into the season. It’s a team that will likely mark its progress in the development of its young players (and it’s a team full of them) as opposed to strictly in wins and losses. There is a lot to like about Buffalo’s future and the players that have been added. But for now, the Sabres and coach Don Granato are in the business of teaching and developing, with an eye to the long-term health and future after missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs the past 11 seasons.’