PickaPecaPickles

Asplund needs to make that pass quicker. He's been on my bad side for a while.

Let's see if he goes back to Cozens on that line, given how well they played the other night?

One impression to note, it seems to me that Asplund hasn't had a good game in over a month...?

This is probably a good take. I think Cozens is like a lot of talented R1 picks who are used to winning. It's not naivete, it's what we should expect from young guns. I think the necessary ingredient is a winning culture that pervades the organization. It's not unlike what the Bills went through. How many coaches and GMs over the 17-year drought? All brought "hopium" when they arrived, but only one was able to drain the swamp in the organization and start over. McDermott and Beane also got rid of Non-process guys. I don't think Eichel, Rhino and Risto are non-process, but the organization needed to start fresh, and also keep a few holdover vets to help the young'uns along (Kyle O = Kyle W?). It seems to me that Adams has tried to clean house and create a similar culture change, but I'm not familiar enough with the org itself, at least compared to the Bills. The source of toxicity of the Bills org was mostly Russ Brandon and somewhat Whaley. I don't think there was an equivalent in the Sabres org that made it dysfunctional--was there? It does appear that Adams has started anew by hiring his own people (like Karmanos). So, in my limited view of the org, Cozens is like Tre White coming in and saying something similar, but it only matters if there is the culture to support it, as was established by McDermott and Beane. Is KA getting done?

Maybe it's his size, or the way he skates, or both, but it looks like he plays in 3rd gear, and has another one (or two) he can ratchet up to.

Yes, good entertainment on the ice. Observations: TT is getting so many good chances, his luck will change and he'll get on a nice scoring run. At one point, I reflected on Donnie G's comments from the other night, that Dhalin will get to a point where the good things he does will outweigh the bad (or something like that). There was a "WTF is he doing?" moment when he put a pass between his legs from behind his own net and only UPL prevented a score. Despite that, it seemed he had another really strong game. I admit, I thought MInny would win in OT, especially when it got to a shootout. Good for UPL getting the W. I'm wondering if between the Sabres and Amerks, there's only one stopper to plug two holes? I hope those young'uns don't lose confidence.

Which is why I'd pick this song...

I recall Butcher had a couple of giveaways too. Substitute Power and Samuelson for Hagg and Butcher, and their ability to compete takes a big jump. Another person who I thought played a good game was Hinostroza. Early in the season, I was not impressed at all, but it could've been because I kept mixing him up with Caggiula.

Related to this discussion, there's a Good piece in TheAthletic about Granato's plan, which is to focus on the offensive development of the players.

Ahhh, history. I seem to recall reading not too long ago the Sabres hadn't won a game against the Lightning since November 13, 2018.

My sentiments exactly. I don't expect much from the goal tending and overall D (though they looked much better for about 1.5 periods last game). I know it's not kosher, but I'm hoping for a top 5 pick. If they can average about 3 gpg along the way, I'll be entertained; especially if the 4 you mention get 20+ each (well, at least the pace would be 20+ for Mitts).

I agree with all of what you said after the first comma...I'd say it's just being realistic that he's not as good as Toke.

And, to add to that belief, Dell is most likely in goal tonight, yes?

Because it's mental not physical. I recall reading about how Donnie G talked to him about his confidence. He was very confident in practice, but would not take that same level of confidence into games. He looks like a very confident player on the ice now and seems as if he is creating plays every time he steps on the ice. From my unskilled eyes, I don't see this as a temporary blip, and he's usually the most entertaining player to watch every game. Also, He's currently tied for 13th in goals.

This mock has 7 RHD going in picks 11-25. With 3 picks in R1, you should get your wish. http://www.mynhldraft.com/NHL-Mock-Draft/

If Quinn can get a goal,that would give each one on the line a goal and 3 points (assuming the assists).

He certainly made himself noticeable last night! And entertaining. Two 👍👍

Very nice play by the #1 center. Almost another goal for Skins.

No Amerks postings? up 2-1 after the first.

From my position, as someone who is watching for the entertainment aspect of the sport, with no experience playing it, he has become the most entertaining player to watch. It seems almost every shift he is creating a chance for his line. Relatedly, Cozens is starting to make more noticeable plays, certainly not as often as TT though.

He's a big dude. I hope he is willing to drop the gloves and stand up for his mates if it's ever needed. It would be great to have someone who has some skills and it tough.

He quoted Granato: "Just a different look. Different energy. I thought it was time." I'm actually interested to see how Skinner does with the move. Tried to cut and paste it, but couldn't from the Athletic site.

Just a post by Vogl about tomorrow's lines. Bjork is going with Cozens, and Skinner with the old guys--Girgs and KO.

My initial thought was why didn't that guy cover Laks better? Then I saw him bend over with his hands on knees--he was gassed!