OK, so I was a little taken by surprise in regards to the apparent hierarchical situation that has transposed this month in regards to our beloved hockeybuzz. For those of you who might think that I am in the know in regards to what is specifically going on, you are going down the wrong lane to the goal. For whatever the reason things have gotten a little askew, I hope everything works out for the best. This site has been relevant to passionate hockey fans, and to see it suffer is a complete waste of a platform that has been viable for years. It has always been a breath of fresh air with people who were being honest about their team, and the circumstances that surrounded the impetus for success. In short, we as writers have the power to talk about our squads beyond the mainstream media because we are not employed by the organization. We as fans deserve to air our feelings, and I truly felt blessed when I was given the torch after so many before me, to talk about my team in a constructive way. For those of you who think that we put pen to paper for money, you are completely misguided in that interpretation. So, when we are frustrated to convey something positive when things are going poorly, it doesn’t necessarily mean that we are being lazy. It is all about ebb and flow. Sometimes we have a lot of things going on, or there is a definitive lull in the schedule. What I need you to know is that in speaking for myself, and I am sure in regards to many others, we do it for the passion of the sport. If I am lucky to go out to dinner ten times a year for the compensation it would be a lot, but I don’t care. I do it because I have been a fan of this team since its inception, and had played the sport for over forty-seven years. The Buffalo Sabres are a part of me, as I am deeply sure that they are a part of you. It means so much when you have grown up in Western New York. We have something unique that if ever comes to fruition in the form of a championship, it will mean way more to us than the big city markets (despite Toronto). It is ingrained and we are true hockey fans. Through generations, going to a game has always been a treat, it is just simply Buffalo.
Back to the matter at hand. I have spoken about our coaches’ patience and willingness to move things around to get the best possible results. Well, he is not afraid, and has been installing a system that is finally breaking through and getting noticed. This is a combination of many things, but some of the core veterans are buying in and selling themselves out on a nightly basis. This is a sign of a true bench boss, and we are slowly witnessing the puppeteer gaining respect and control. Regardless of injuries, and the possibility of sustainability being compromised, we just broke over the five hundred-mark for the first time this year and the standings are tight. We are in a playoff spot with Thanksgiving games for us to attend. Perhaps, at this time, we couldn’t ask for more. It is obvious that the bottom two on the blueline are interchangeable with proper guidance, and that the last six up front just need to have compassion and physicality. If they are motivated and ready compete on more nights than not, things shake out for themselves. The pendulum is swinging. If we can get healthy during the next stretch, we should be able to establish ourselves as a legitimate opponent that is challenging for the post season.
Congratulations to UPL for giving us a reason to season Levi in Rochester. The guy has shown that at this time he is worthy of the starting spot. When the professionals show faith that proves me wrong, I welcome it. It is nice to see a relentless plan slowly come to fruition. Down significant bodies, our Sabres are not giving up regardless of the odds. They have been fighting and clawing their way through the schedule and have finally broken the surface. If we can just string a few more together while giving some young guys valuable experience, then I think we could be on our way. Cooking the Ducks in dramatic fashion is what we all needed. Once again, I was wrong in regards to Zucker, he is a professional and doing his part. How about this blast from the past on November 22nd from quite a few years ago. The scene at the Aud and our boy number eleven. Truly one of the best to pull on our sweater. Enjoy.
As we embark against the Sharks and our last game on this road trip, I want to remind you of the dismal performances against the Flyers and Montreal, and how things can turn around. Patience and faith are starting to creep in. Let’s see where it takes us. I watched the first period last night and fully expected to check my phone this morning to see adverse results. Keep pulling the oars together boys, and bring us the smile. We all can be happy together. I long for the days that you can really feel the support and overall vibe in our arena.
Are we cursed with the number twenty-three? First, we don’t sign the best Sammy, and then we ink the one who can’t find his way. Throw in Leino. But we do have captain clutch Mr. Drury. He was sort of good. Unless Samuelsson loses some weight and hits the gym I am smelling buyout. Fragile is a kind word when it comes to this guy. I appreciate the way Lindy isn’t afraid to work someone else into the lineup. Everyone needs to be accountable and what is wrong at someone else getting their shot at the show? Until next time go Sabres. I will continue to connect with you as long as we are able to post.
Thanks and foil up for Turkey Time next week.
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