SabresBeat

'Buffalo wrapped up home ice advantage throughout the upcoming postseason by scoring early and then methodically shutting the door on a disheartened Capitals' squad playing in its season finale. Adding icing to the cake was the Hollywood-like script written by concussion returnee, Tim Connolly, who made his first appearance of the season a successful one with the Sabres' second … [Read more...] about Game # 81: Sabres 2, Capitals 0

'Then when you tack on the tremendous fan support inside the Verizon Center, a possible shutout for Ryan Miller and memorable goals for Buffalo, you get a game that doesn’t feel like the second-to-last contest of the regular season. You get the playoffs, which is the level at which this Sabres squad is already playing at.' … [Read more...] about This time, no disappointment for Sabre fans in DC

'Roy’s goal was his 20th of the season, becoming the seventh Sabre with 20 or more goals this season.' … [Read more...] about Connolly scores as Sabres clinch Presidents’ Trophy

Amerks' offense falters in Syracuse shutout (Rochester D&C) Stafford doesn't play for Amerks at Syracuse (Rochester D&C) Amerks shut out by Crunch (Amerks.com) Game notes (SyracuseCrunch.com) … [Read more...] about Sunday’s Rochester Coverage (Updated 4:45 a.m.)

'“His conditioning isn’t there, and I know that bothers him a little bit,” Sabres defenseman Brian Campbell said. “But skill doesn’t go away. It comes back pretty quick. What he does is pretty special. It’s nice to see him back.”' … [Read more...] about Sabres cautious on Connolly

'Since the Islanders need to beat the Flyers today and the New Jersey Devils on Sunday afternoon and receive a little help from the Leafs tonight, if they fail to record two points this afternoon they are done and the Canadiens can clinch with any victory. the Leafs, meanwhile, must win in regulation -- if the Canadiens lose in overtime or in a shootout, they both will finish … [Read more...] about Canadiens, Leafs or Isles will be playoff foe

'Quinn is optimistic that things could change next season under the terms of a new deal between the NHL and NBC. NBC will have a “flexible schedule” for hockey that NBC Sports Chairman Dick Ebersol said in a release “will always allow us to have the best possible games. Nothing could be better for hockey fans, who now will be able to see the best teams and … [Read more...] about Jury out on Sabres, NBC deal

'Resilience, chemistry, veteran leadership, firepower on offense, a capable defense, depth and great goaltending are the necessary components for playoff success. Buffalo has them all. And that will turn Miller and his Sabres into Stanley Cup champions.' … [Read more...] about Playoff preview: Sabres will raise the Cup

'It’s not often you can debate whether a 40-plus goal scorer in the National Hockey League is too unselfish, but Vanek’s tendency to pass while deep in the zone has sparked that discussion.' … [Read more...] about Vanek scores, but does he shoot enough?

'"This community has stepped up big for us," said Sabres goalie Ryan Miller. "It means a lot to come the rink every night and be greeted by loyal fans."' … [Read more...] about Sabres wrap up sold-out season

Buffalo (52-21-7) at Washington (28-39-14) (AP) Vanek, Sabres continue march towards Presidents' Trophy (Sportsticker) Buffalo Sabres (52-21-7) at Washington Capitals (28-39-14) (The Sports Network) Caps Close Out Campaign Against Sabres (WashingtonCaps.com) Game notes (WashingtonCaps.com) Game # 81: Buffalo @ Washington (SabresFans.com) Sabres optimistic for Connolly, … [Read more...] about Saturday’s Washington Coverage (Updated 12:00 p.m.)

Amerks clinch playoff berth (Rochester D&C) Kaleta's check angers Bulldogs coach Lever (Rochester D&C) Amerks extend Bulldogs' skid (Hamilton Spectator) Rochester 2, Hamilton 1 (AP) Playoff Bound (RNews.com) Amerks earn playoff bid with 2-1 win over 'Dogs (Amerks.com) 'Dogs fall to Amerks (HamiltonBulldogs.com) … [Read more...] about Saturday’s Rochester Coverage

'"We'll see how he feels tomorrow and then make a decision," Ruff said. "If we do get him in and he feels well enough to play, the opportunity is there to look at him in both games. The plan is to get a read on whether he can be an asset to our team."' … [Read more...] about Ruff hopeful about Connolly’s return

'Buffalo tied the franchise mark it set last year by winning its 52nd game and did so in front of another packed house. HSBC Arena sold out its entire, 41-game home schedule for the first time since 1979-80, coach Lindy Ruff’s rookie season.' … [Read more...] about No place like home

'“A doctor can clear him to play, but let’s be realistic,” Ruff said Thursday before the Sabres played the Boston Bruins in HSBC Arena. “The conditioning part could be an issue.”' … [Read more...] about Ruff not sure if Connolly&#8217s ready