from Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News,
Too many players on the Sabres’ roster haven’t earned anything, which makes me wonder if they’ve learned anything. Regier has insisted that they’re getting better, and he’s probably right. Young players are bound to improve whether they’re in Buffalo or somewhere else.
The Sabres have several players, based on performance and NHL readiness, who should have packed their bags long before Kaleta did. He could adjust his style without going to the minors. But they’re allowed to stick around while he’s shipped out of town? What does that say to the kids, that poor play is acceptable because they’re young?
By their own admission, the Sabres have lacked effort. It’s one reason they’re getting bombed in the first period. Solid goaltending, absent Saturday, covered up for a mountain of mistakes. It provided a false sense of hope that the learning process can be accelerated. It’s equally possible their growth will be stunted.
We might not know for several years what they’re taking from this season. They’re adjusting to the speed of the game. They’re gaining an understanding of the importance of positioning in the NHL, particularly in the defensive zone. They’re getting a PhD in playing from behind. All are positives.
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