[GDT: Oilers at Sabres 3-9-2024 12:30 start MSG]

I think KA and Donny could be on the verge of revolutionizing the game. I think by the end of the season they’ll be dressing 10 D, but using 6 for two lines of “Shut Down” defensive forwards. Leaving Dahlin, BB8 and Power to skate every other shift for 40 mins a night.  CAN’T WAIT!

[GDT: Oilers at Sabres 3-9-2024 12:30 start MSG]

1 hour ago, Scottysabres said:

Point well taken.

Given Casey's comments on Avs morning skate, I'm leaning more towards we have a serious coaching staff problem here in Buffalo. Not that it's news to many and given the teams scoring ability last season I was already pushing that way, but I get what your saying for sure. I just try to make light of it all, because if I don't, it gets depressing. So kudos to you and others who try to focus on the bright spots.

I missed it - what was his comment? 

[Sabres play at a 123 point pace this year with Samuelsson in the lineup]

32 minutes ago, DarthEbriate said:

The Canucks love Schenn and will want someone to dramatically overpay if they go on any significant losing streak. They’re just so reluctant to reboot. But he’d be a very good fit for  Power. 

Feels like we’ve been hearing Schenn’s name for a while now. The resume fits the mold other than GMKA’s preference for youth, but I haven’t seen him play lately - has he lost a step at this point? 

[Sabres play at a 123 point pace this year with Samuelsson in the lineup]

6 hours ago, Taro T said:

He also allows 2nd & 3rd (or lesser) pairing defenders NOT have to play 1st pairing minutes & opponents.  THAT is huge.

This is key. The system is tested when Fitz, Pilut and Bryson are skating big minutes. They’re all improving at clearing people out, but things are stacked against them, quite literally being under-sized “offense first” puck movers. Muel provides the balance that makes me think fondly of the great combination of Campbell (O), Tallinder (D), Teppo (O), Spacek (D), Lydman (D) and Kalinin (O) - one of the last great D Corps we’ve skated. 
So in that vein, I’m not sure Chychrun helps the balance that we need. I’d be looking for someone cheaper that would fit the Jake McCabe mold - too bad he’s a lefty making $4M per now, b/c I bet he’s available. Strong 2nd pair defensive compliment to Power - someone that would let him get more comfortable jumping into plays and pinching at the line. That was I think the thought for Lybushkin, but IMO he’s better suited for 3rd pair with Joker. 

[Sabres play at a 123 point pace this year with Samuelsson in the lineup]

4 minutes ago, Two or less said:

Hell of a first post. Welcome to the board!

Thanks - Long time listener, first time caller. 😁

[Sabres play at a 123 point pace this year with Samuelsson in the lineup]

This is what professional hockey looks like, and how Fantasy Sports have changed everyone's perspectives. Mattias grew up in and around the NHL, was a US U-18 and U-20 Captain, 32nd overall draft pick, is 6-4, and skates with a stick that DAHLIN has dubbed "The Cobra."  He could put up some points if he had some PP time as he was an over .5ppg skater in Roch the last two years - but he's not going to get that time - he's too valuable to not have out there when "they" have the puck.  He's ALWAYS in the right spots to shut down what's coming at him, and I think Andy has helped take his game to the next level with the communication and "on-ice coach" wisdom.  That alone has made Andy's last year worth the investment.

This quote from Tuch I think says it all: "He’s a really good skater. Not the fastest guy in the world, but he’s able to move really well and he’s always in the right spot. He’s got a long stick that makes it impossible to beat him one-on-one and he’s really strong too.”

It's obvious that Granato has emphasized puck possession, and has allowed Tage, Dahlin and everyone else for that matter to Dangle when it's appropriate. It's the most Anti-Kruegian tactic there is, and Muel is the equal and opposite reaction to Dangling. He just doesn't let it happen. If the goal is to score more than the other guys, Muel is someone I'm happy is on our side. Donny's system NEEDS someone like Muel to offset all the 2 on 1s that were coming at us when he was injured. Funny how those have slowed down since he's been back.