Thanks to Ryan from the Red Light District for this one. Rick may see this and go crazy.
2008/09 Recap-
Record: 41-32-9, 91 pts.
Playoffs: None
Key Additions: Steve Montador, Mike Grier, Cody McCormick
Key Subtractions: Jaroslav Spacek, Maxim Afinogenov, Mikael Tellqvist, Andrew Peters
X-Factor: Derek Roy
Roy led the team with 70 points in 08/09. A similar season would pay dividends for the Sabres.
Breakout player: Chris Butler
Without a true #1 defenseman, I think the young Chris Butler will step up this year and play really well.
Prospect to watch: Tyler Myers
The 6’7” defenseman should see some time in Buffalo this season.
On the hot seat: Craig Rivet
He is their highest-paid blue-liner, and needs to play better as captain.
Fantasy Corner-
Buy: Thomas Vanek
Sell: Jason Pominville
Sleeper: Nathan Gerbe
Bold Prediction: Buffalo will miss the playoffs for the 3rd straight year, leading to Lindy Ruff’s dismissal as coach.
Team Overview: This is a tough team to get a finger on. They certainly have enough talent to make the playoffs, but have experienced costly injuries in each of the last 2 seasons. The Sabres will look to end that playoff drought, but must do it with streaky forward production and an average blue line. The heat is on coach Ruff to make them a contender again, and it’s possible if they can avoid the injury bug.
Current 09/10 Prediction-
5th in Northeast Division
This wraps up our month-long ’30 in 30′ feature. If you missed your favorite team’s day, you can find that link on the right-hand side of the blog…
