Buffalo News

‘”It’s pretty cool,” Mattias Samuelsson said before the game. “My mom is from Pittsburgh. Her whole side of my family still lives there. My dad was on Cup teams. So there’s definitely some history with the Penguins.”‘

‘The Sabres improved their puck management from Saturday’s game and played the entire contest from in front, a rarity this season.’

‘“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.’

‘“Obviously, my rookie year being in the NHL, the first thing I wanted to do was just prove I can play at this level, show that I was responsible defensively,” Cozens said following practice Friday in KeyBank Center. “Once I kind of showed that, I think I want to take the next step in my offensive game. Obviously, I’ve had a lot of things going on this season, but I’ve been able to watch a lot of games and just learn from watching. I’m happy where my game is at right now.”’

‘The Sabres need at least three healthy goalies between the active roster and taxi squad for each game day, although the National Hockey League granted the team an exemption Thursday.’

‘”It’s an incredible feeling. I can’t think the guys enough tonight,” said Tokarski, who was 0-4-2 in his first six appearances this season. “They played an incredible hockey game, put the body on the line, got the offense going and really helped my job tonight. … There’s nothing better for a goalie than celebrating with your teammates after a win.”‘

‘”Everything that’s going to be happening from today moving forward in our organization, Jason’s going to be involved with,” Adams said. “We’re going to make decisions together. We’re going to work hand in hand in every area with other staff members.”‘