Sep

10

With the Training Camp and Preseason Schedule announced, the start of the Sabres’ 2007-2008 season is quickly approaching. The biggest dilemma stems from not knowing if the team can replicate another prosperous season. However, re-stating the obvious over and over again is far from original. There are certain things that could happen this season that have either been rare, or simply not occured during the “Golden Era” of modern Sabres hockey. We all are hoping for a Stanley Cup to culminate years of hard work, but let us look towards some other hockey hopes!

Rick Jeanneret in HD – Whenever a Sabres game is broadcast in high definition, that night is a good night! However, there is always something missing from the crystal clear details. Namely, Rick Jeanneret. His calls are legendary, and bring a unique element to every hockey game. It is true that national recognition is a huge boost for the team’s economic success, yet the void created without Jeanneret makes the mute button look all the more appealing.

A Shut Out or Two, or Ten – Ryan Miller is an amazing goaltender, which nobody can deny. It has been frustrating, however, to only see him amass one or two shut outs per season during his full-time career with the Sabres. Several instances from last season, involving goals in the last minute of play, resulted in feelings of loss and frustration. Miller has the potential to take on every type of shot, and throw his body about in a logical sense. Of course, shut outs are not all-important, but who does not want to see a score of 3-0 every now and then?

Successful Special Teams – When the power play worked last season, it worked like a charm. Anyone familiar with the Sabres, though, knows that there were precious few opportunities in 2006-2007. The Sabres’ power play was ranked 17th, while the penalty kill unit was ranked 20th (NHL Stats). Last season’s President’s Trophy showed that special teams are not the most important aspect of a team, but ranking within the top half would definitely be a plus this season. There are a good number of players on the team, such as Connolly, Roy, and Vanek, capable of making the plays. It will remain to be seen if the off-season changes will make a difference for the power play and penalty kill.

Many other factors have been left out, since there are so many things that are expected from the Sabres. Is there enough pressure being put on them? Most likely, judging by the heart breaking playoff losses of the past two seasons. The one thing we do know is that this team is still intact, and ready for another run at the Stanley Cup: Three times a charm.


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