It is always nice to see the Hurricanes lose. It’s also nice knowing they’re wallowing near the Eastern Conference basement.
Jhonas Enroth put together a gem only days removed from a rough outing in which he was pulled early. The Sabres performed admirably as they limited Carolina’s prime chances and cleared most of the second opportunities. Still, the kid had to be sharp in the second period while the Sabres let the Canes roll up an 8-0 shot advantage.
Still, Buffalo pieced together a sound 60-minute effort, something they have struggled do to all season. Their goaltender was solid, they won the special teams battle and played complete team defense. So many games have featured a disjointed defensive effort from the Sabres, each defenseman was effective tonight and the forwards were equally strong in contributing.
The Sabres have to bounce back to First Niagara Center tonight for a game against BizNasty and the Coyotes. Considering Phoenix’s surprising start, the Sabres will certainly have their hands full.
- Tyler Myers has officially played two good games in a row. He was involved offensively and managed to maintain his physical game at both ends. That benching really served as a wake up call.
- Christian Ehrhoff may have had his most effective game thus far. While he didn’t find the scoresheet, he actually played defense and started getting pucks to the net on the power play. Perhaps his adjustment period is coming to an end as well, just like Ville Leino’s did.
- Speaking of Leino. He, Drew Stafford and Brad Boyes were a pretty solid trio Sure, it is a line made up of three wingers, but they were very sound all night. It seems fairly obvious that Boyes is a better player when he is in the top-six. Shocker. Leino continued to come along in terms of comfort. I’ve been really obsessing over his progress this year simply because of his contract and the potential he brings to the table. I’m glad his creativity is coming back to him.
- It is unfortunate that T.J. Brennan probably won’t see any time this weekend. You can’t really blame Ruff for sticking with his six best, but considering the type of response you get from a guy making his NHL debut, you may have gotten an equal or better return from Brennan that you get from, say, Marc-Andre Gragnani.
- The special teams won the battle last night. After looking foolish in the home opener, the Sabres special teams have really progressed. The penalty kill remains stellar and the power play creates chances. Last night was a perfect combination.
- It is going to be interesting to see what happens with Luke Adam. He was demoted to the fourth line, and won’t be seeing many minutes for the foreseeable future. He was effective with Vanek and Pominville and if he faltered Ruff would put a more responsible player in that slot. I fear that his removal from the top-six will hurt the team more than it will help.
Three Stars
1. Jhonas Enroth
2. Jason Pominville
3. Brian Boucher
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