Bleacher Report - Articles by Ron Van Lew

Buffalo Sabres-Ottawa Seantors: Another Third Period Collapse for Buffalo

Ron Van Lew — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 11:06:00 -0500

The Buffalo Sabres are in unfamiliar territory this season. They are riding a three game losing streak, and not showing any signs of urgency.

Buffalo traveled up to Ottawa to take on a senators team that was on a roll winning their last three games.On the other end of the spectrum Buffalo had lost their last two games and not looked good in doing so.

Ottawa came out and dominated play in the first five minutes of the first period before Buffalo found their legs and controlled the final fifteen minutes of play. Nineteen minutes into the first period Thomas Vanek got Buffalo on the board first with a power play goal to end the period in Buffalo's favor 1-0.

The second period the roles reversed as Ottawa continued to pound Buffalo. Phillip Kuba was able to get his point shot past goaltender Patrick Lalime to knot the game up at one, early in the second. But buffalo fans could see the tide swinging. Daniel Alfredsson would prove the Senators were in this game as he got his wrister from the slot past Lalime to pull Ottawa ahead.

The second period would end much like the first, with one team holding a one goal lead. The third period was where it all cam unglued again for Buffalo. As Ottawa just destroyed any chances of Buffalo making a comeback.

The Senators would net the next three goals within the first eight minutes of the third period to take an eventual 5-1 lead. Buffalo would come back on Ottawa pulling within two goals as Patrick Kaleta and Jason Pominville would score, but it was too little, too late. And Ottawa skated away with the 5-3 win.

Thoughts and observations

Craig Rivet: This guy looks old. He continues to get caught flat footed and out skated far too often to be in a No. 1 pairing.

The offense: The box score says they put 41 shots up tonight, but holy cow how many actually hit the net? I can think of at least seven shots from fifteen feet or closer that were shot terribly wide.

The defense: Again back up goaltender comes in and they forget how to play defense. I do not recall on blue liner even trying to drop to block a shot all night. Not to mention what happened to the defense clearing the front of the net so the goaltenders have a chance? Absolute terrible team performance. Toni Lydman may be next to be visiting the press box.

The coaching: How is it Lindy Ruff cannot get his team up on a consistent basis to play back to back games? This has been a bug a boo for him for years now. Maybe a little less being the nice guy and a little more of being the disciplinarian Lindy.

Sabres-Panthers: Florida Claws Their Way Past Buffalo

Ron Van Lew — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:11:30 -0500

The Buffalo Sabres tried to continue the winning streak tonight as they hosted the Florida Panthers at the HSBC arena.

Unfortunately for Buffalo the third period would prove to be their sticking point tonight as the Panthers rolled to a 6-2 victory.Though a bit on the boring side, the first 40 minutes of play was tightly contested as Florida was hanging on to the 2-1 lead.

But in the third period the wheels came off for Buffalo. After Cory Stillman gave Florida a 3-1 lead, Clarke Macarthur brought Buffalo back to within one goal scoring his sixth of the year on the power play.

Unfortunately for Buffalo the one goal deficit would not last long as again Florida would tickle the twine behind goaltender Ryan Miller , as Michael Frolik scored his second of the night on the ensuing power play to regain Florida the two goal lead.

As a bit on insult added to injury 14 seconds after the Frolik goal Florida would add another with the net empty in favor of the extra attacker for Buffalo. Florida was now in total command with the score at 5-2.

The last bit of sand thrown in Buffalo's eyes was when Buffalo's last year's deadline acquisition Dominic Moore scored his first of the year on Ryan Miller with one minute left in the third period.

This must have been an exciting goal for Moore as he decided he needed to collect the puck from the referee that signified his 36th career goal in just under five seasons in the NHL. Good for you Dominic congrats. I think the state of Florida is working on the heroes parade for you as I type this.

None the less Buffalo was outworked terribly in the third and showed little

Sabres-Flyers: The Buffalo Swagger Continues

Ron Van Lew — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:46:00 -0500

The stage was set. Buffalo versus Philladelphia. A chance for the Sabres to avenge the drubbing the Flyers put on them no more than a week earlier.

As the game was about to start, I still wondered if the Sabres could finally break that ugly habit of playing horrid on the back side of back to back games. It did not take me long to get my answer.

This was a war from the opening puck drop to the final horn. It had all the makings to set up the next two tilts these teams will have with each other this season. Scrappy play, bad blood, two goalies that will not back down,and two extremely talented teams looking to leave their respective marks on the Eastern conference.

Thomas Vanek was the recipient of an early Flyer's penalty, and a nice centering pass to get Buffalo off and running early. His wrister found it's way past goaltender Ray Emery just over three minutes into the first period. Buffalo took the lead 1-0.

Though no goals were scored the rest of the period, it wasn't for lack of effort. Both Emery and Ryan Miller made some great saves to keep their teams in the game early. In all six penalties were called in the first period with Philly receiving four of them.

The second period started with Buffalo controlling play for a majority of the period. Both teams realized they were in for a full 60 minute game and decided maybe the second period was not an ideal time to leave their team short handed.

At almost the 15 minute mark of the second period, Tyler Ennis playing in his first NHL game for Buffalo netted his first career NHL goal to give Buffalo a semi-commanding 2-0 lead. The second period would end at that score, But Philly seemed to be finding their game late in the second. It only amped up the possibility of a great final period.

Just as I thought, Philly came out flying in the final frame. Buffalo was on their heels and holding on for dear life. Chris Pronger announced his presence on the score sheet early in the third when his slapper from the point blew by Miller to cut the lead in half.

But a costly high sticking penalty by former Buffalo Sabre Danny Briere opened the door for Buffalo to capitalize once more. And center Paul Gaustad made no mistake as he deflected a Tyler Myers shot from the point past Ray Emery to regain the two goal Buffalo lead.

Philly was down but certainly not out of it.

As, yet again, they showed just how dangerous they can be short handed as Jeff Carter cut back into that Buffalo lead by scoring his seventh of the season just over half way through the third.

The Flyers continued to pressure the Buffalo Sabres for ten more minutes. But Ryan Miller and company were up to the task. Buffalo grab the short plane ride back home with a narrow 3-2 win.

Thoughts and Observations

Thomas Vanek has been a penalty magnet as of late. He really needs to focus on the game, and stop taking lazy, undisciplined penalties.

Chris Pronger may be my favorite defense men in the NHL. It is amazing at his age How well he still does everything. Without question Philly's best pick up in a long time.

Ray Emery has re-emerged as a top 15 goaltender in the NHL. It seems like decades ago now when he had his problems.

Buffalo's power play continues to struggle. Lazy passes, poor shots from the point. Something really needs to be done.

Ryan Miller: Is There Any Question Who Team USA's No. 1 Goalie Is?

Ron Van Lew — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 11:04:32 -0500

At the beginning of this hockey season, the talk was not who was going to be the net minders for Team USA in the upcoming Olympics, but rather who would be the starter. Goaltender Ryan Miller has answered that question for everyone.

At the end of the 2008-2009 season, questions started to surface about just how "great" Miller could be. Or even if he was a franchise goaltender.

But those questions have now since all fallen by the wayside as Miller has shown his previous season was merely a blip on the radar.

As the season began Miller looked like a new man between the pipes. His footwork had gotten better, his confidence was soaring, and most important his success has never been better.

At this point of the season Ryan is leading the NHL in wins, save percentage,and goals against average. And is one shutout out of leading that category as well.

Know as a very cerebral goaltender, Miller is the kind of player that can get himself into a zone where his is almost unbeatable most nights. And as a spirited competitor he also wants to avenge any loses or poor outings right away by playing the next game.

As Buffalo fans continue hearing the announcers call "Miller robbed him blind," the coaches for team USA will have very little to think about when on Jan. 1. they name their starting goaltender for the Olympics.

Coming Out Of Nowhere: The Rise Of Steve Montador in Buffalo

Ron Van Lew — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 23:57:38 -0500

When the Buffalo Sabres this past offseason announced that they had signed defense men Steve Montador, I thought to myself—Okay, not a bad seventh D-man; maybe sixth, if injuries happen. Probably see 10 minutes a night in ice time .

I can't think that anyone even the Buffalo Sabres thought any different.

But what a pleasant surprise Montador has been to the Buffalo Sabres blue line. Not only is he logging a very modest amount of ice time—around 17 minutes a night—but it is possible to argue that he has never played better in his career.

Montador is known as that character guy in the locker room. Not exactly the most gifted on the ice, but what he lacks in talent he makes up for with heart. Already, Sabres fans have gotten to witness first hand how Montador sticks up for his team mates even if it means getting his head beat in.

This is something the Sabres have been lacking for years now. Teams have to be aware that it is not going to be so easy to run into or bump goaltender Ryan Miller without having to answer the bell for their actions.

Is it any coincidence that goaltender Ryan Miller is having a giant bounce back season from last year? I think not. Personally, it is players like Montador that make Miller able to find his comfort zone in the crease.

Wednesday night Montador scored his first goal as a Buffalo Sabre. It was very fitting for a guy who has come to this team and shown what it means to play with heart and passion. My prediction is that Montador will soon become a fan favorite among the Sabres community in the very near future.

Tampa Bay-Minnesota: Lightning Strikes Twice in the Third Period to Win Again

Ron Van Lew — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:55:23 -0500

The Minnesota Wild came into to Tampa desperate to get onto the winning track that their players and fans alike expect from them.

Through two periods of play, that seemed like a very good possibility for Minnesota, but there are three periods in hockey and The Lightning would strike twice to force an overtime and an eventual shootout.

The first period saw Minnesota grab the 1-0 lead late in the period as Beniot Pouliot snuck a backhander past Anterro Nittymaki.

The second period was dominated on the shot cart by Minnesota. The Wild out shot the Lightning 11-4 in the second frame, while Kim Jhonsson grew Minnesota's lead to two goals early in the second while in the power play.

But as Minnesota's power play netted them a goal, it also cost them a goal as Steven Stamkos only five minutes later scored on Niklas Backstrom short handed to bring the Wild lead back to one. Wiley veteran Owen Nolan then took center stage as his unassisted wrist shot found the twine to regain Minnesota's lead to two goals going into the second intermission.

But as what seems to be the norm for the Wild, a seriously deficient third period allowed the Lightning to crawl back into the game. First Steve Downie netted his second of the year on an ugly three on two rush. And then, with about one minute left in the game and Minnesota grasping to a one goal lead, Marek Zidlicky takes a lazy hooking penalty that gives Tampa Bay the opening they were looking for.

As Anterro Nittymaki sat on the bench in favor of the extra attacker, Ryan Malone pushed a back hand past Backstrom to give Tampa the game-tying goal going into over time.

In over time, neither team could gain any real advantage as they traded very few scoring chances. Next up the shoot out.

Vinny Lecavalier scored Tampa's first shoot out goal of the season in the first round to give Tampa the edge after one round 1-0. Martin Havlat may have thought he had some magic in his stick starting off the second round, but Nittymaki quickly showed he was wise to Havlat's move. Steven Stamkos was up second for Tampa, and Like Lecavalier Stamkos snapped the twine giving Tampa the 4-3 shootout win.

Buffalo Sabres-Philadelphia Flyers: Buffalo Falls Short with Forgettable Effort

Ron Van Lew — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:57:33 -0500

The Philadlephia Flyers came into Buffalo Thursday night with a severely injury depleted line up, and many players suffering the effects of the flu.

Tonight in their game versus Buffalo it looked like Buffalo was the team struggling with sickness the Flyers dominated the entire game on route to a 5-2 thrashing of the Sabres.

The first period was played somewhat competitively by both teams.Then with less than two minutes remaining in the first Daniel Carcillo put the visitors up 1-0 going into the locker room.

The second saw a an out burst of goals. Unfortunately for Buffalo most were scored against them. Chris Pronger got it started early with a seeing eyed shot past Ryan Miller to widen the margin. But on the power play less than four minutes later Derek Roy made the best of a broken play to net Buffalo's first goal of the night.

It was rookie James Van Riemsdyk who re-captured the two goal lead for Philly as 14 minutes into the second he netted his third of the season, bringing the score to 3-1. That is how the period would end

The third period was no real prize for Buffalo as tentative play again was the special of the night. Darroll Powe took advantage of a give away by Buffalo in the offensive zone, to net his fourth of the year, and again widen the margin to three goals for Philadelphia.

Buffalo then would take advantage on the power play as Tyler Myers one timed a shot from the point past goaltender Ray Emery to try and give Buffalo some life. But it was all for not. As Philadelphia would seal the deal with an empty net goal late in the game to win going away 5-2.

Thoughts and observations from tonight embarrassment.

The lack of effort as an entire team tonight by the Sabres still has me wondering if this team has truly turned this magical corner that everyone is talking about. It seems far too often the offense lacks consistency, and scoring to be considered a team that is ready to take that next step.

The defense was out muscled, and intimidated. Yes there are young players on the blue line, but you have three veterans that need to stand up and take accountability for their actions. Goaltender Ryan Miller again is going to have to watch the traffic in front of the net, as the defense has forgotten how to remove forwards from his area.

Jason Pominville said it perfect in a post game press conference. "We were out worked in every way tonight" Very true Jason my question is, What are you and the rest of the forwards going to do about it?

Sabres-Islanders: Ryan Miller Shines As Buffalo Blanks New York

Ron Van Lew — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:41:30 -0500

Ryan Miller wanted nothing more then to put last Saturday night's 5-0 drubbing at the hands of the New York Islanders behind him.

Tonight as the scene shifted back to Western New York, Miller and company came out and played with a purpose for 60 minutes. The result: a 3-0 beat down of the Islanders and former Buffalo goaltender Martin Biron.

Since leaving the Sabres, Biron has virtually owned the Buffalo Sabres, winning consistently with either team he has played for since his departure from the Sabres in 2006.

But tonight was Buffalo's night as forward Derek Roy got the monkey off his back, netting his first goal of the year. And Thomas Vanek contributed to the offense as well, as he followed in Roy's footsteps and netted one of his own.

The game was as complete of a game as Buffalo has played in probably two full seasons. The forwards all chipped on both sides and created quality scoring chances, while the defense kept the Islanders' quality scoring chances to a bare minimum.

It is that kind of play that is only going to help keep goaltender Ryan Miller fresh and not facing a firing squad night in and night out. Buffalo has Thursday off as they prepare for the hated Philadelphia Flyers to invade HSBC arena on Friday night.

Buffalo Sabres-New York Islanders: Biron Welcomes Former Team with Career Night

Ron Van Lew — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:23 -0400

In my earlier article today I had made mention of the flu affecting certain players of the Buffalo Sabres team. Never did I know that the entire team must have been going through sympathy illness for their ill comrades.

Tonight the Buffalo Sabres went into the island to collect what some would consider an easy two points. Problem was no one told the Buffalo Sabres about how easy those two points really should have been to attain.

The first period Buffalo had some decent scoring chances but failed to capitalize on any, giving the Islanders a new lease on life in this game. And with just under three minutes to play in the first period Richard Park put the Islanders ahead with the eventual game winner 1-0.

The second period is where this game unraveled for Buffalo. tentative play from both forwards and defense men caused for inopportune chances for the Islanders to widen the margin.

Nine minutes in Jeff Tambellinni raised the bar, and started on the way to a career night for himself. Tambellinni wasted no time netting his second of the night just over three minutes after his first goal he scored.

Closing out the second period adding insult to injury Josh bailey let a one timer rip from the high slot that found it's way past back up goalie Patrick Lalime to send the Isles to the dressing room after two periods of play up 3-0

The third period was just more of the same for the Sabres as errant pass after errant pass were given to the Islanders like full size Kit kat bars are given out by the rich people in the neighborhood to all the boys and girls.

Tambellinni would end his career night in the third by netting his third of the game, and his first career hat trick on a tip in past a sprawling Lalime. islanders goaltender martin Biron celebrated two separate things in the win with the Islanders tonight. It was career win number 200, and his first win as a New York Islander.

The final score was 5-0. These two teams meet again in Buffalo next Wednesday for a re match. Hopefully for Buffalo faithful, Lindy Ruff will get his players a bit more motivated than the tummy ache from eating too much candy on Halloween night players they were tonight.

Thrashers-Senators Pavelec Shines As Thrashers Win

Ron Van Lew — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 17:59:37 -0400

The Atlanta Thrashers have been lost since losing their leader Illya Kovalchuk over a week ago, and their play has resembled a team in total disarray.

But today in Ottawa, net minder Ondrej Pavelec stepped to the forefront and took over for the slumping Thrashers stopping 50 of 51 shots thrown at him, in a 3-1 win.

In a game where head coach John Anderson seemed far too comfortable allowing his players to play the entire game in their own end, Pavelec came up with highlight reel after highlight reel save to keep Atlanta ahead all day.

Zach Bogosian got the Thrashers off to a lead with a quick wrister that found it's way past Pascal Leclaire to get Atlanta on the board.The first period was the only showing of any offense from Atlanta as the hit Leclaire with 13 shots in the opening frame.

In the second, Rich Peverley tipped in a Nik Antropov shot to grow the margin to two goals. As the offense started to slump Pavelec began to shine, stopping 18 shots in the second frame to keep his team up by two going into the third period.

The third would only be more offense by Ottawa as Atlanta sat on their heels and seemed comfortable doing so. Pavelec in the last frame was credited with stopping 24 of 25 shots faced.The only goal allowed by Pavelec would be on a five on three power plays where he made some terrific saves, but was unable to corral a loose puck on the side of the net.

With time winding down in the third Maxim Afinogenov got a break away on Leclaire and did not miss beating a lees than stellar Leclaire five hole to seal the deal.

Atlanta is off till Tuesday when the travel to Montreal to face the Canadiens. Hopefully for Pavelec and Johan Hedberg the coaching staff can implement some form of defense and transitional play before that game.

Buffalo Sabres-New York Islanders: The Flu Hits the Sabres Lineup Hard

Ron Van Lew — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 13:31:56 -0400

It seems as every team is now at battle with the flu early this season, and the Buffalo Sabres are no different.

First to come down with the virus was forward Clarke Macarthur who found a way to play through it. Last night center Paul Gaustad was out of the Sabres lineup with the same illness. And now rumor has it that Patrick Kaleta has become the next victim.

On a night that has been set aside for tricks or treats, it seems it is only tricks that the Sabres are going to get.

Defenseman/part time forward Nathen Paetsch has been penciled in to fill in for the absence of Kaleta. Andrej Sekera is rumored to also be ready to go and will more than likely be on a line with Steve Montador.

The fourth line of Buffalo has been a pillar of strength this season. And with any luck this will not change due to the nasty trick played on the Buffalo Sabres.

Lightning-Sabres: Tampa Bay Snatches Defeat From Hands of Victory

Ron Van Lew — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 12:04:13 -0400

As I got ready Saturday night to sit down and watch two teams that I like, the Buffalo Sabers and Tampa Bay Lightning, I had only two questions.

Could Buffalo came away from a team-building resort retreat in Florida and actually play a full 60-minute effort? And could this be as entertaining game as I hoped for in my mind?

The answer to both questions was a resounding "no."

As I sat in front of the plasma television main-lining 5-hour Energy to try and keep my focus on a game that had far more low points than highlights.

Both teams struggled to muster quality scoring chances all night. At the end of the first, Vinny Lecavalier got Tampa on the board for a 1-0 lead going into the second.

That goal made me hold out hope that maybe, just maybe, the second period would start with a furious offensive pace. But it was another disappointment.

Mike Grier knotted the game 1-1 with a late-period goal.

Just a little over the four-minute mark into the third, Steven Stamkos showed he loves to play against Buffalo, netting his team-high seventh goal of the season to give Tampa the lead.

Both Mike Smith and Ryan Miller made timely saves for their teams, but nothing spectacular.

Tampa Bay seemed to have the game wrapped up until, with 17 seconds left on the clock, Buffalo's extra man, Drew Stafford, snapped the twine to tie the game 2-2.

Overtime would prove useless for both teams. They were on to the shootout.

It took six rounds for a goal to be scored by either team. When it was over, Buffalo was getting back on the jet after grabbing two points they really did not deserve.

For Tampa, the game had to be heartbreaking. The blue line still needs some work. There is far too much time spent chasing their own tail when play is in their end.

As for Buffalo, the players that are paid to score are not doing it regularly enough. Whether it be from not battling hard in front of the net or not trying to create chances, they seem lifeless too many times in a 60-minute game.

Tampa will enjoy a four-day rest before getting back at it Thursday night when they host the Ottawa Senators.

The Florida Panthers Have Been De-Clawed

Ron Van Lew — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:31:06 -0400

Hey Florida Panthers players, one question for you. You are really going to let David Booth get taken out on a stretcher and not have anyone answer for that? Is this your idea of how to properly protect your best player? After the headache has subsided I wonder if Mr. Booth will watch tape of the incident and start to question just how serious the team is to winning.

You just lost your best player to a very questionable hit at best yet find no need to respond. You boys have been de-clawed. I have now officially lost respect for that entire team. Sleep well as Booth sits in a hospital, get all the rest you can, because you guys are gonna need it.

Ok and this concludes my rant. Sorry for wasting anyone's time.

Buffalo Sabres Send Daniel Paille Packing

Ron Van Lew — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:39:22 -0400

The Buffalo Sabres announced today that they have struck a deal with the Boston Bruins.

The deal sends often-scratched forward Daniel Paille to Boston in exchange for Boston's third-round selection and a conditional fourth-round pick in the 2010 draft.

Paille found himself falling out of favor with head coach Lindy Ruff, spending more time in the press box than on the ice.

The move allows the Sabres to stay under the NHL's limit on the maximum number of active players on their roster.

For Paille, this may be a blessing in disguise. He goes to a contender and leaves a Buffalo team that has all but fallen from grace.

Tampa Bay Lightning Struggling to Change the Image

Ron Van Lew — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 09:44:54 -0400

The Tampa Bay Lightning have been a doormat for most other teams in the NHL for too many years now. But head coach Rick Tocchet is bound and determined to change that image.

Since their triumphant Stanley Cup victory in the 2003-2004 season, this team has been picked apart from goaltending to defensemen to forwards. The rebuilding process has been a long and arduous task that has seen its fair share of ups and downs.

Ownership changes, coaching changes, and poor free agent acquisitions have led to the Lightning failing to put anything that would resemble a winning product on the ice every night.

But this year it seems just a bit different. The players have seemed to buy into Tocchet's ideas and have adjusted accordingly. It does not help that their first pick in the draft this year, Victor Hedman, is exactly what this team has missed for seasons now on the blue line. Hedman shows very little to no time needed to adjust to the faster, quicker, and harder hitting style of the NHL. While Tocchet was very wise to pair him with free agent acquisition Mattias Ohlund, Hedman is making a name for himself without much assistance needed.

Tampa has had far too many woes on the blue line for far too long. Tocchet recognized this and has made a valiant attempt to change the culture on the blue line. Along with Ohlund, Lukas Krajicek, Kurtis Foster, and Matt Walker were added to strengthen the blue line that had left Tampa's goalies out to dry too many times in recent years.

Early in the season Tampa is still looking for their first win of the season, but they have shown marked improvement in every area on the ice opposed to recent past seasons. Good strong defense and playing the game much better positionally in the back end is only going to help this team in the long run. Look for Tampa Bay to get the monkey off their back within the next two games and quite possibly rattle off a winning streak of four or five games in a row.

Everything is pretty much in place for this team to finally not be walked on anymore. It is up to the players to learn now how to win as a team.

Sabres-Habs Post Game Thoughts and Observations

Ron Van Lew — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 11:57:27 -0400

The Buffalo Sabres opened their 2009-10 regular season schedule last night versus the Montreal Canadiens. Though the score showed only three goals scored between the two teams, there was much more substance inside the game that was worth watching.

Take for instance 19-year-old Tyler Myers. Buffalo head coach Lindy Ruff openly admitted how "surprised" he was at Myers progression.the kid was no disappointment last night in his first regular season NHL game either.

Myers shows a tremendous amount of poise and skill for such a young player, and is making the decision to only keep him with Buffalo for the allotted nine games before returning to junior even more difficult for the Sabres staff.

Carey Price is another example of the substance within the game. Though the Canadiens I think will have some major struggles generating offense, Price is showing that he is back to pre-all star form,while throwing his middle finger up to all who doubted him for almost a year.

His team has been out shot almost 2-1 in the first two games of the regular season, and without Price in the net Montreal would still be looking for their fist win of the season.

Lindy Ruff has made a difficult decision to move center Tim Conolly off the center position, and has him on the wing with Derek Roy and Thomas Vanek.

Ruff decided before the season second year pro Tim Kennedy had done enough in the preseason to earn a roster spot on the team, and center the second line with Jason Pominville and Clarke Macarthur on the wings. The interesting tidbit to that is Connolly is a center and Kennedy is a natural winger.How will this play out for the entire season?

Injuries. We all know injuries are part of the game but they seem to be big problem early in the season for the Habs. Montreal's best defense men Andrei Markov was injured in game one when he severely lacerated a tendon in his leg.

Last night the Habs acquired two more injuries as forward Glenn Metropolit left the game early with an injury and blue liner Ryan O'Byrne was injured as well. The extent of those two injuries were not known at this time. But Montreal fans have to be praying they are not long term.

The line of Gionta, Gomez, and Cammalleri are going to be Montreal's best chance of putting up big numbers for this team. If they fail this could be a long season for Canadiens fans everywhere. There is a lot of money stockpiled into these three and the offense created so far has been minimal.

In the end Montreal found a way to win this game last night and Buffalo again found a way to lose. Weather Gionta scores a fluke goal or not Buffalo need to learn the art of finishing off opponents, rather than letting them hang around in the game.

Goalie Olaf Kolzig Calls It a Career

Ron Van Lew — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:11:10 -0400

Olaf Kolzig the 14 year veteran goaltender today decided to call it a career.

Some of Kolzig's acomplishments were being nominated to the all star game twice,as well as being named the Vezina winner in 2000. Kolzig also ranks 21st all time for wins with 303. But Kolzig's biggest acomplishment on the ice was being named the winner of the King Clancy memorial trophy in 2006.

Kolzig said today ,""I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to play the game of hockey at the NHL level for many seasons and I am grateful for everything the game has given me," "I would like to thank my family, all my teammates and the fans for making my time in the NHL so special."

What I will always remember about Kolzig are two things, a very fierce competitior, and a very passionate person who puts in double time for his charity he founded in honor of his son named the Carson Kolzig foundation, as well as being a member of athletes against autism.

Olaf lived up to his billing of "zilla" both on and off the ice. The hockey world will miss a true humanitarian like Olaf.

Olaf Kolzig Calls It a Career

Ron Van Lew — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:11:06 -0400

Olaf Kolzig, the 14-year veteran goaltender, today decided to call it a career. Some of Kolzig's acomplishments were being nominated to the all star game twice,as well as being named the Vezina winner in 2000. Kolzig also ranks 21st all time for wins with 303.

But Kolzig's biggest acomplishment on the ice was being named the winner of the King Clancy memorial trophy in 2006.

Kolzig said today,""I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to play the game of hockey at the NHL level for many seasons and I am grateful for everything the game has given me.

"I would like to thank my family, all my teammates and the fans for making my time in the NHL so special."

Olaf lived up to his billing of "zilla" both on and off the ice. The hockey world will miss a true humanitarian like Olaf.

Too Many Defensemen A Serious Quandary For The Buffalo Sabres

Ron Van Lew — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 21:39:42 -0400

Buffalo Sabres Head Coach Lindy Ruff has found himself in a spot in which he has not been before. The problem? Too many defensemen. Though not all of Ruff's defensemen could be considered top four defensemen he certainly has an overflowing amount of blue liners.

Captain Craig Rivet, Henrik Tallinder, Toni Lydman, Nathan Paetsch, Andrej Sekera, Chris Butler, Steve Montador, and last, but not least, Mike Weber. That's not to mention players that within the next year that should be ready; Tyler Meyrs and TJ Brennan head up the names on that list.

So what is Ruff to do? The largest problem is that only Mike Weber can be sent down to Portland without having to clear waivers. But the rest of the seven are veterans. And as frugal as the Buffalo Sabres are, it is a very slim chance they would let a player walk away and pay them for no services rendered.

Paetsch and Montador can also play a forward position on a fourth line, but the problem there is that the Sabres are stacked with fourth line players and really have no room for them.

Last season saw Nathan Paetsch spend a considerable amount of time in the press box while six defensemen dressed, players like Weber and Butler were called up and played before Ruff would even dress Paetsch in a game. This poses the question does Ruff try and roll four lines of defense?

Personally, I think that would be a rather wise move by the coach. Yes it would cut down on the forwards that are able to dress per game, but it may help in keeping Buffalo's top two lines of defensemen fresh and healthy. The trio of Paetsch, Tallinder, and Lydman all become unrestricted free agents at the end of this up coming season. Until then, Ruff may have to pull the proverbial rabbit out of his hat trying to keep this defensive corps happy and gelling together as one cohesive unit.

Taylor Pyatt Lands In The Desert

Ron Van Lew — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 22:32:42 -0400

The Phoenix Coyotes and unrestricted free agent Tyalor Pyatt have come to an agreement on a one-year contract.

Paytt playing for the Vancouver Canucks last season netted 10 goals along with nine assists in 69 games.

Buffalo Sabre's Mair To Miss at Least Six Weeks

Ron Van Lew — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 22:33:53 -0400

Buffalo Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff today announced that forward Adam Mair underwent successful arthroscopic hip surgery. He is expected to miss at least 6 weeks.

All of a sudden the Mike Grier and Cody McCormick signings start to look more like a stroke of genius by GM Darcy Regier.

Alex Tanguay Finds a New Home in Tampa Bay

Ron Van Lew — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 21:59:32 -0400

Unrestricted forward Alex Tanguay has reportedly signed a one year deal with the Tampa Bay Lightning today. Tanguay came off a rather slow and injury riddled season by his own account in Montreal where he only netted 16 goals and 25 assists in just 50 games with the Canadians.

Tanguay could just be the icing on the cake for the Lightning in their quest for one more top 5 forward for the 2009-2010 season.

Tragedy Strikes the Theodore Family

Ron Van Lew — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 19:28:40 -0400

The Theodore family is mourning the loss of their two-month-old son. In a statement today, Veronique Cloutier, the sister-in-law of the Washington Capitals' goalkeeper, spoke about this tragic event. No further details were given by Veronique Cloutier as to the cause of death.

Just a heartbreaking story, and just shows how precious life really is. My thoughts and prayers go out to and are with the entire Theodore family.

Tampa Bay's Hoping Drew Miller Proves To Be Lighting in a Slightly-Younger Model

Ron Van Lew — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 07:19:44 -0400

In a less active offseason for the Tampa Bay Lightning than the previous summer, they have decided this is the end of the road for Evgeny Artyukhin as a member of the Lightning.

Yesterday the Lightning pulled off a trade that sent Artyukhin, and a third round seection in the 2010 draft to the Anaheim Ducks for Drew Miller. Miller has seen more time at the AHL level in the past, but could be a decent pick up as a fourth line player.

Artyukhin spent two seasons with Tampa and just never turned out to be the player they had hope he would become. Both players, in my opinion, needed the change of scenery. This may help jump start both of their careers.

A Preview of the Tampa Bay Lightning's 2009-2010 Season

Ron Van Lew — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:02:43 -0400

The Tampa Bay Lightning ended a dismal 2008-2009 season with more questions than answers.

Goaltender Mike Smith was injured early and never recovered from a bout with post concussion syndrome. The defense was inept, and the forwards were not much better.

The only thing a fan of the Lightning could say at the end of it all was, "There is always next year."

Tampa Bay stayed rather busy this offseason trying to re build a defense that may have been the worst batch of blue liners they had ever had. There was almost no secret the 'Bolts were eyeing up Swedish phenom Victor Hedman with the No. 2 overall pick.

Hedman has a chance with his skill set to make an automatic impact for the Lightning right out of training camp. But that was not the only move the Lightning were about to make.

On July 1, they went out and added some veteran presence to the blue line by signing free agent Mattias Ohlund. Then they took it up a notch in the grit department by landing Matt Walker to police the blue line on the same day. One week later, they acquired Kurtis Foster as well.

If anything, the blue line for Tampa bay will have a whole new look to it.

Though not as many, there were still holes to fill in the forward department as well for Tampa, so rugged left winger Stephan Veilleux was signed to a contract. Another piece of the puzzle was found when tough guy Todd Fedoruk was acquired along with David Hale in exchange for Radim Vrbata.

Vrbata just never worked out for Tampa and was a bust in the eyes of the Lightning and their fans, after requesting to go home and play in his home country. Not too many tears will be shed with the loss of Vrbata.

And in a sort of odd move this off season, the Lightning bought out the contract of fan favorite Vinny Prospal.

General manager Brian Lawton released this statement; "After fully evaluating our roster and our position in the salary cap world, we arrived at the decision to buy out Vaclav Prospal from his contract." He continued, "We appreciate Vinny's service to the Lightning, but in the best interest of the team, we believe a difficult decision needed to be made in this case and we are going to move ahead without him. We wish Vinny all the best."

The goalie position was also a place of concern for Lawton. Anterro Nittymaki, who has shown flashes of brilliance from time to time, was a quick and inexpensive pickup. He signed a one year contract for $600,000.

Tampa Bay has been much wiser this off season with their money. My guess is the crazy money they threw around last season taught them a valuable lesson they are soon not to forget.

Tampa fans and players alike have a lot to look forward to this year in a new defensive unit with depth, a healthy starting goalie, and an emerging superstar in Steven Stamkos to complement the likes of Lecavalier and St. Louis.

At the very least, this will be one entertaining season.

What The Signing Of Mike Grier Means To The Buffalo Sabres

Ron Van Lew — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 23:27:00 -0400

The Buffalo Sabres shocked most of their fans on Monday signing free agent Mike Grier to a one year, 1.25 million dollar contract.

Sabres fans will never forget Grier's words on his way out of Buffalo after the 05-06 season.

"I don't like the direction this team is going in."

At the time, it seemed like a strong statement being made by the right winger. But now after 3 seasons away from Buffalo, Grier is singing a different tune.

The reacquired right winger was interviewed this morning on WGR 550 am, and his comments were a completely about saving face from just three seasons ago with departing.

"I like that they have some of their young players locked up". players like Ryan Miller, Derek Roy, Thomas Vanek, and Jason Pominville."

The problem with me lies in the fact that for the season of 2006-2007 the Buffalo Sabres have underachieved vastly. The front office has taken heat from fans and media alike for some of the contracts handed out to these young players as well as letting some key players walk away to become unrestricted free agents.

So how is Grier so comfortable with the direction of the team?

My money lies directly on the fact that Mike Grier found it difficult to land new jobs as any free agents have this offseason. Sabres fans should still be happy a guy like Grier has decided to sign back with Buffalo for two reasons though.

Mike Grier brings instant leadership to this team. He will, in my humble opinion, be wearing the A right off the bat for Buffalo.

Not known for his scoring prowess, Grier is the kind of player you do not catch taking shifts off. He has a knack for going into those corners, getting his nose dirty, and getting the puck. He expects a lot from himself as well as his team mates.

Mike Grier also brings much needed size to a very small and somewhat fragile right wing position. Grier will be winging a top two line and making his money on the penalty kill. Another facet of his game that is top notch.

So for all the questions I have had the last two days about the way Mike Grier left, I will sure welcome him back to Buffalo and let bygones be bygones.

Hopefully, the Buffalo media will do the same.

Blackhawks Superstar Arrested

Ron Van Lew — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 11:16:10 -0400

Local Chicago Blackhawks superstar Patrick Kane was arrested this morning in Buffalo. Kane and another party "whose name is being withheld" were arrested Sunday moring over an alleged "dispute" with a cab driver over cab fare in downtown Buffalo.

Kane, a Buffalo native, had made news earlier in the week by being part of a fund raising event for the local Cazanovia park. Just days later, he had made news in a different light.

Chicago fans and Buffalonians alike can only hope this kid grows up and realizes he is a role model for too many children locally and in Chicago as well.

Acts like this just give the city of Buffalo another black eye which it does not need.

Steve 'Air' McNair Found Dead

Ron Van Lew — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 16:49:59 -0400

A report out of Nashville, TN is claiming former Baltimore Raven and Tennessee Titan Steve 'Air' MNnair has been found murdered along with a female in what looks like a double homicide. Details will soon follow.

Jim Balsillie: How Moving the Coyotes to Hamilton Will Save the Sabres' Fans

Ron Van Lew — Sat, 30 May 2009 20:08:31 -0400

Okay, before all the Buffalo Sabres fans jump down my throat and call me the Anti-Christ, hear me out. If Jim Balsillie was awarded the Phoenix Coyotes and subsequently allowed the move to Hamilton, it could become a Buffalo Sabres fans dream.

Here's why.

Let's look at a few aspects of the Buffalo Sabres organization as a whole and just see what could be improved. The Sabres ownership is primarily run by two people, Tom Golisano and Larry Quinn. Quinn is the managing partner and minority owner of the Sabres. Golisano is the money and power, so to speak. Nothing pertaining to money spent does not happen without Tommy G putting his stamp of approval on it first.

Some may look at this and say, "Okay, Ron, big deal. Every team has an owner that has a say in team's operation."

Yes, very true, but how many teams have multiple owners that have no hockey background as the Buffalo Sabres have? Quinn, a real estate and land developer by trade, has been with the organization multiple times and honestly has shown little in the way of forward thinking with this team since the day he his second term.

Golisano, on the other hand, is a self-made billionaire of a business called Paychex. Again, no hockey background to speak of. But one thing Golisano does possess is a second-to-none business sense. He understands the value of a dollar and knows what it takes to make money. That being said, how does Balsillie moving a team to Hamilton make the Buffalo Sabres' fans happy?

The NHL is a business—just like anything else. It thrives on planting a butt every 12 inches in an arena. With the current state of the local and national economy, some teams have made cutbacks to ensure that they will stay viable through the hardship. But a guy like Balsillie comes along and gets awarded the Coyotes franchise that moves close to Buffalo with a promise of $150 million in improvements.

One can only think that a man like Balsillie who has a voracious appetite about getting a team would not accept anything less than success from his franchise. That alone may force the Buffalo Sabres brass to sit and take a long hard look at what they have done and which direction this team is headed.

As Quinn said, a team in Hamilton could be a big hit to the Buffalo Sabres franchise, in terms of attendance. Well, I guess Quinn and Golisano would have to work that much harder to make sure the product on the ice is a quality one in which thousands of people would sell their right arm to attend.

Buffalo Sabres fans are starting to get sick of status quo from this team. The bottom line is that winning fixes problems and sells tickets. The Sabres have been lucky over the last two seasons to have as many fans attending their games as they do; the lack of a quality product will soon cause regular attendees to shy away from buying tickets and find better ways to spend their hard earned money.

Even worse, the casual fans that can either only afford to go once in a while or only care to go once in a while will turn away completely from overspending to attend a game that fails to entertain anyone besides popcorn vendors.

This is big business, but is nothing more than K Mart trying to compete with Wal-Mart for the tough-to-earn consumer dollar. And like any other business, you can only take so much ringamoro before you shop elsewhere. Balsillie would make this team sharpen their collective pencils and actually force them to show they care about the fans and not just the profits they claim they do not make. Please let Balsillie get that franchise. I have a sneaking feeling Sabres fans, in the end, will be much happier.

Red Wings-Penguins: A Closer Look at the Critical Stanley Cup Matchup.

Ron Van Lew — Sat, 30 May 2009 17:37:54 -0400

While the majority of hockey experts are going to pick the Detroit Red Wings to repeat as Stanley Cup champions, there are some that think this series could turn out to be the beginning of another dynasty for the Pittsburgh Penguins. I decided to look at some of the critical points of both teams and who holds the edge.

Forwards

While this may be a bit closer than one would think, Pittsburgh has speed, grit, skill and size. Detroit counters with skill, size and great work done in front of opposing goalies. However, the subtraction of forward Pavel Datsyuk for at least Game One is huge. And who knows how healthy he will be when he returns.

Edge: Pittsburgh.

Defensemen

Pittsburgh's blue liners are playing out of their respective minds. But Detroit is just all world when it comes to its defensive core.

Detroit wins this battle hands down.

Goalies

Chris Osgood has been called a "product of the system" and I personally do not believe this for a minute. The fact is the guy wins games and has the rings to prove it.

Doing battle at the other end of the ice is Marc Andre Fleury. While Fleury's numbers are not as strong as his save percentage and goals against average last year, he has been solid for most of these playoffs and has been in a zone through the last round versus the Carolina Hurricanes.

Edge: Marc Andre Fleury

Power play

Detroit made its first-round opponent, the Columbus Blue Jackets, pay for taking penalties. The Wings have not had the same success through the next two rounds. Pittsburgh on the other hand has picked up the pace on their power play and trails the Wings by only a couple percentage points.

Edge: Pittsburgh

Penalty kill

This stat is not even close since Detroit has struggled with the penalty kill during the playoffs. While Detroit is a very dangerous team, it looks as if you can draw penalties against it, the team will struggle.

On the road this season, Detroit has a 69.2 percent penalty-kill rate. Penalties at home are a bit better but nowhere near good enough. Pittsburgh killing penalties at a 83.6 percent average. Detroit will have to try and keep their game composed as to not expose this weakness.

Edge: Pittsburgh

In closing, statistics do not tell the entire story. Every team who faced these two finalists is different in their own way.

The way I see it, this is going to be a long, drawn-out series with maybe a couple of overtime games. Pittsburgh will be victorious in six games to start their reign at the top of the NHL.