pi2000

Most everything he's done to this point is obvious stuff that needed to be done. Now is when his job gets difficult and where I will grade him. If BUF stays within earshot of a playoff spot, what does he do at the deadline? Buy, sell, hold? Who does he protect in the expansion draft? What does he do with Bylsma, Kane, etc?

about time

86 They need to win games in regulation against eastern conference teams ahead of them in the standings.

IMO, to win this game, BUF needs to play a defensively responsible game. They'll get their scoring chances because TOR gives up goals in bunches, but they also can score in bunches. If BUF keeps them under 3 goals, they should find themselves on the winning end.

Most goalies today wear XXXL pants no matter what size their body is. To feel comfortable they add layers upon layers upon layers of material/pads to increase thigh circumference so they're not swimming in the XXXL pants. Size appropriate pants will open up more space over the leg pads and under the glove/blocker on today's butterfly style goaltenders.

Size appropriate pants is the first step, and it was supposed to be implemented in time for the beginning of the season, but there were issues with manufacturers, etc. so it was pushed back.

Without so many injuries, BUF could be another 6-8 points further up the standings sniffing a playoff spot. I think Bylsma has done a fine job with what he has.

@TSNBobMcKenzie: NHL has issued memo to all clubs/goalies saying all netminders must be wearing the "new" re-designed/size appropriate pants by Feb 4.

Eichel vs Matthews #sharpenyourswords

This is a game they should have won.

Ennis in. COR called up. Who sits? Maybe they give Kane the day óff?

go team

exactly

IMO it's too early to discuss this, there's still a lot of hockey left to be played.... trades, etc... for example, Kane and Girgensons have turned their games around recently, can they keep it up? We don't know what Ennis has to offer. Does Nilsson steal Lehners job?

I want Eichel to experience it just to be around all the other superstars so he can see how they prepare and other habits that make them successful. It would be a good learning experience for him at his age.

I have extremely low expectations for this game. #sharpenyourfwords

I want no part of Bieksa, but I do like Montour and Theodore. I'd even go Kane for Montour and a pick. That said, Kane's been playing well but how long can he stay out of trouble and healthy.

This team needs a Turgeon/LaFontaine type deal to take the next step.

It's a popularity contest.

Nylander, Reinhart and Ristolainen for Hamilton and Gaudreau.

This game could put them over .500, which typically means they come up small and go a 3-4 game losing streak.

Rochester There was absolutey nothing wrong with that hit on Paille. Paille touches the puck and lunges head first at McCabe who just stands his ground. 5 and a game? Not even close.

Des is a popular character in the locker room, he's good for team chemistry. I don't think he goes anywhere soon.

Didn't think Ennis was coming back yet, but maybe he is.

Matthews makes the All-Star game. no Eichel. no Risto. One Okposo. http://www.tsn.ca/matthews-laine-highlight-all-star-rosters-1.647350