Impressions of, and questions concerning--G, Linus Ullmark

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Goaltender--Linus Ullmark
DOB:  July 31, 1993 (age, 22)
Draft:  2012, 6th round (163rd overall)
How acquired:  Drafted by Buffalo
Last contract signed:  2014--3yrs./$2.3275M total  + $445,500 in performance bonuses
Final year of contract:  2016-17, RFA

2015-16 Stats:  20 games, 8-10-2 record, 2.60 goals against average, .913 save percentage, 0 shutouts


What we wrote preseason:  N/A

What we wrote mid-season:  "while Lehner and Johnson may be battling it out for the starters-role near-term, Ullmark should be in that mix a few years down the road. For a 22 yr. old rookie goaltender playing his first pro season in North America, he acquitted himself quite well. Early in the season Bylsma was impressed with Ullmark's calm demeanor under pressure. Still looks like a rook on many occasions, especially when he's lunging, but all-in-all, a fine NHL debut thus far for the 6'4" 212 lb. Ulmark."

Impressions on his play this year:  He was a rookie goaltender thrust into a position that no one foresaw at training camp. When starting goaltender Robin Lehner went down in the second period of the Sabres first game of the season, Nathan Lieuwen got the call as Chad Johnson's backup. Ullmark was in Rochester acclimating himself to not only his first pro game in North America, but his first game in months because of elective double-hip surgery.

The original plan was to have Ullmark return to the ice sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas, but his rehab went marvelously and he started the season in Rochester. He played extremely well for the Amerks was brought up as Johnson's backup then got his first NHL start on October 24, 2015. Upon hitting the NHL ice one was struck by his poise and smooth positional play but as with all rookies, especially rookie goaltenders, the more tape teams have on a player, the more they'll exploit weaknesses. Ullmark had a solid rookie campaign for Buffalo but things fell apart when Lehner returned and he was sent back to Rochester and he was giving up goals in bunches.

Questions moving forward:  His manic end of season play in Rochester was somewhat disconcerting, but was it a matter of his hips giving him trouble? Especially because he came back months early from surgery? Can he maintain his poise if he gets off to a slow start next season, presumably with the Amerks? Has he adapted to the North American culture? How much will the coaching change affect him and the skaters playing in front of him? Will he have the same mental recuperative powers that he had when he recovered from hip surgery?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--G, Chad Johnson

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Goaltender--Chad Johnson
DOB:  June 10, 1986 (age, 29)
Draft:  2006, 5th round (125th overall)
How acquired:  Trade with NY Islanders, March 2, 2015
Last contract signed:  2014--2 yr. $2.6M
Final year of contract:  2015-16

2015-16 Stats:  45 games, 22-16-4 record, 2.36 goals-against average, .920 save percentage, 1 shutout


What we wrote preseason:  Johnson's all that's left of the 16 men in the crease for the Sabres over the last two grueling seasons and he entered training camp as back-up to No. 1 goalie Robin Lehner. Johnson has the ability as shown during his 2013-14 season in Boston [but] Long Island was a far cry from Boston, however, as Johnson was a brutal in a backup role to starter, Jaroslav Halak.

At the time of the deadline day trade to Buffalo, Jonathan Willis of the Edmonton Journal called Johnson's season in New York a "nightmare" and explained that the team was even worse with him in net than the numbers indicated. At 29 yrs. old with and NHL five seasons under his belt as a backup, Johnson knows the drill [in Buffalo]. “I’m just coming in and trying to take care of what I can,” Johnson said [last off season]. “If I play 30 games 40, 60, whatever it is, that’s to be determined with my play. They bring in a great goalie like Lehner who has played well in the past. We’re trying to push each other and that will help the team be better.”
What we wrote mid-season:  "simply put, has been outstanding. Sabres head coach Dan Bylsma loves Johnson's calm demeanor in net. 'Johnny' has gained the confidence of coaches and players and seems to be getting better and stronger in net. Coughing up juicy rebounds has been a major roadblock to No. 1 goalie status for him but as of late he's been getting a handle on those. Not sure when the last time his confidence-level was this high, if ever. When Robin Lehner comes back from injury, it will be interesting to see how each react to the other as Johnson's making a case to remain the starter."

Impressions on his play this year:  When Lehner did come back, Johnson went back to his role as back-up until Lehner went down again in mid-March and the team shut him down for surgery on March 30th. Throughout the season, Johnson was the consummate professional and took whatever role he was in to heart. He appeared in a career-high 45 games and won a career high 22 of them while posting GAA and SV% numbers that were second only to his time in Boston behind a staunch Bruins defense.

As mentioned mid-season, rebound control seemed to be a major stumbling block to Johnson earning bona fide No. 1 goalie status. He gained a lot of confidence in Buffalo and timed a career year very well as he'll be a free agent during this off season. With all the travel, work and progress he's made during his six-year NHL career it's not surprising that he wants to become a starter and he started his search for that opportunity at the end of the season. "There’s four teams that need goaltenders or starting goaltenders or don’t have guys that have done well," he said to the media at locker cleanout.

Questions moving forward:  If Johnson's hell-bent upon becoming a starter, which team other than Buffalo will afford him that opportunity?

 

Impressions of, and questions concerning--G, Robin Lehner

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Goalie--Robin Lehner
DOB:  July 24, 1991 (age, 24)
Draft:  2009, 2nd round (46th overall,) Ott
How acquired:  June 26, 2015 Draft-day trade with Ottawa
Last contract signed:  2014--3yr./$6.675M
Final year of contract:  2016-17, RFA

2015-16 Stats:  21 games, 5-9-5 record, 2.47 goals-against average, .924 save percentage, 1 shutout, 8 penalty minutes


What we wrote preseason:  "Buffalo Sarbes GM Tim Murray was hellbent and intent upon fixing a goaltending situation that had been in a constant state of flux since he came to the Sabres in 2013. [Robin] Lehner was acquired from the Ottawa Senators the morning of the 2015 NHL Draft. Murray, who had drafted the Gothenberg, Sweden native in 2009 (46th-overall,) watched Lehner develop while he was AGM in Ottawa. On June 26th, Murray sent the 21st pick, one of three first-rounders the Sabres had, to the Senators for Lehner and forward, David Legwand and many thought that Murray paid an above-premium price for the 23 yr. old Lehner.

"Murray had seen him lead the Binghamton Senators to the Calder Cup as he was named playoff MVP as a 19 yr. old and Lehner would become the youngest Senator ever to start and win his first NHL game that same season. And he's convinced Lehner is a starting goalie in the NHL. "I think he's a No. 1 goalie. I think he becomes a starter," he said at the draft, then defined what he meant. "When I say a starter or a No. 1 center or a No. 3 defenseman or whatever, I mean on a good team, on a contending team, on a competitive team, on a playoff team."

What we wrote mid-season:  N/A (Injury)

Impressions on his play this year:  There were times Lehner looked invincible and there were times he looked like a rookie, but his intensity was always a constant. He had a steel-eyed glare worthy of a villain in a superhero movie and looked like he was ready to bite the head off of a bat at any moment. Lehner's got the size, the athleticism and unquestioned compete and had himself a pretty good, albeit shortenened, first season in Buffalo as his .924 save percentage and 2.47 goals against average would indicate.

He did come back from his injuries pretty well, all things considered, and one needs to remember that Lehner hadn't gotten into a lengthy routine due to a concussion in February, 2015 and then he was felled by the high ankle sprain barely into the second period of his Buffalo Sabres debut on October 8th. By the time he hit the ice for good on January 15 this season, his workout cycle had been interrupted too much for a full evaluation.

Everyone in the hockey universe is going to point to the first round pick Murray gave up in the trade for Lehner. Immediate reaction from the media called it "larceny," and so it could very well be until Lehner and the Sabres prove otherwise. Perhaps that starts this season.

Questions moving forward:  Can he stay healthy? Will he be able to regain the form he had three years ago when he was considered an elite goalie? Can the Sabres and Lehner channel his intensity? Will the NHL's competition committee reduce goaltender's equipment like they've mentioned lately? How will it affect Lehner, a big-framed goalie who championed the reduction on WGR this past season? At $3.15M in salary this season as a pending RFA, what kind of performance will he put in and how will that affect the cap-hit and term of his next contract?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--D, Carlo Colaiacovo

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Defenseman--Carlo Colaiacovo
DOB:  January 27, 1983 (age, 33)
Draft:  2001, 17th overall (TOR)
How acquired:  Free agent signee (PHI,) 2015
Last contract signed:  2015, 1yr./$900k
Final year of contract:  2015-16

2015-16 Stats:  36 games, 1 goal, 4 assists, 5 points, -11


What we wrote preseason:  "The 32 yr. old Colaiacovo is a former 1st round pick of his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs (2001, 17th overall) but has been a nomad since being traded to the St. Louis Blues in November, 2008.

"St. Louis brought him back on a one-year deal but he played in only 25 regular season games mainly due to injury once again. The injury prone Colaiacovo, ironically enough, was signed by the Philadelphia Flyers on October 30, 2014 due to a rash of injuries that hit their blueline. Young stud Shane Gostisbehere had been in the lineup playing well but the Flyers wanted him developing in the AHL so on came Colaiacovo. He had a good season in Philly, but went unsigned at the end and Murray picked him up this off season."

What we wrote mid-season:  "Has exceeded modest expectations in his reserve/bottom-pairing role. Although he ain't Niklas Lidstrom, Colaiacovo is veteran of over 450 regular season NHL games and knows his way around the ice. He knows his role too."

Impressions on his play this year:  T 32 yrs. old and with over 400 NHL games under his belt, there really wasn't too much about Colaiacovo's game that would come as a surprise. Staying healthy had always been a concern, but the odds of him hitting IR were slim as the reserve role he was in would limit his playing time.

When given ice-time he held his own about as well as one would expect.

Questions moving forward:  Where will this journeyman's journey take him next?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--D, Mark Pysyk

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Defenseman--Mark Pysyk
DOB:  January 11, 1992 (age, 24)
Draft:  2010, 23rd overall
How acquired:  Drafted by Buffalo
Last contract signed:  2015--2yr./$2.25M
Final year of contract:  2016-17, RFA

2015-16 Stats:  55 games, 1 goal, 10 assists, 11 points, -1


What we wrote preseason:  "Of all the players mired in the muck that was the Buffalo Sabres last two seasons, defenseman Mark Pysyk was the one who got crapped on the most. But with that over and fading into memory, it's time for him to take his place in the Sabres top-six defense corps. It's safe to say that almost every Sabres fan thought Pysyk would be in the lineup last season, but he was a caught up in a crude game that included numbers, waivers, a preseason injury and an organizational focus on the long-term.

"Had the Sabres not signed Cody Franson this off season, it's probable that Pysyk would have been top-four but for now, he looks to be a #4/5 to at least start the year. Which is good in that the team can continue to develop him further while allowing him to gain confidence offensively. One of the things GM Tim Murray had wanted Pysyk to work on was jumping into the play more."

What we wrote mid-season:  "should simply be known as the quite one, as in he quietly goes about his business playing shutdown defense. Pysyk is also calm while smoothly getting the puck out of his zone under the most intense pressure. Reminds me of Bill Hajt, one of the most underrated Buffalo Sabres of all time. The Sabres would do real well moving forward with a shutdown d-man of that caliber."

Impressions on his play this year:  Pysyk seemed to have hit a wall in his development this season. Not that it was detrimental to his fundamental game, because he remained pretty solid in his own end while being deft with that first pass in his own zone. It would seem as if the key with him moving forward is if he can contribute more on the offensive side of things.

When GM Tim Murray sent him to Rochester in 2015 with the team in last place and a defense corps that had a few players on it Pysyk could have replaced, he wanted him to work on jumping into the  play more. Pysyk showed progress in Rochester that year and even showed spurts of it with Buffalo during the early part of last season. But it's quite possible they might want to see more in that respect and it could be the difference between the team seeing top-four minutes instead of defensive-minded lower-pairing minutes.

Questions moving forward:  Can he continue to grow from an offensive perspective while maintaining his solid play on defense? How much did those two bottom-feeding years in the Buffalo organization put a crimp on his development, if at all? How is he perceived by other GM's throughout the league? Is a new zip-code in the offing as this may possibly be his last RFA contract?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--F, Tyler Ennis

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Forward--Tyler Ennis
DOB:  October 6, 1989 (age, 26)
Draft:  2008, 26th overall
How acquired:  Drafted by Buffalo
Last contract signed:  2014--5 yr./$23M
Final year of contract:  2018-19

2015-16 Stats:  23 games, 3 goals, 8 assists, 11 points, -9


What we wrote preseason:  "During Ennis' pro tenure, the Sabres franchise has gone through a multitude of changes from ownership to GM to coaches, but he's always managed to keep an even keel. He's had an array of linemates and was moved back and forth from center to wing, yet has maintained steady production:

 --three 20-goal seasons including the previous two seasons when the Sabres challenged the modern mark for scoring futility.
--his 89 goals in 345 games averages out to 21 goals/82 games
--he also tallied 123 assists in 345 games averaging 29 assists/82 games
--that 21 goals and 29 assist average is just about where he ended his rookie season
"Is he a true top-line forward? The books still out on that. But the "greazy" forward who's proven non-believers wrong throughout his career has, in the very least, solidified his status as a top-six forward."
What we wrote mid-season:  "was having some troubles before he went down with an injury. Kid can weave in and out of a defense, stickhandle in a phone booth and put the puck in the net. When he's on he can work some magic, when he's off, which has been most of the year, he's doin' a whole lotta choppin' with no chips flyin'."
Impressions on his play this year:  Ennis didn't have the opportunity to send any chips flyin' as he was felled by his second injury of the season, a concussion from an Alexander Ovechkin check on December 30 that put him out for the rest of the season. Ennis was on a 14-game goal-drought at the time. Interesting thoughts from Sabres GM Tim Murray last when he talked about Ennis to the gathered media at First Niagara Center (via Bill Hoppe,) “Maybe [the time away] makes him a better player,” said the GM. “Maybe this makes him a harder worker."

It was the second time Murray mentioned that a player needed to pay a little more attention to the new agenda. The other was Matt Moulson. Ennis, Moulson and Zemgus Girgensons were three of the Sabres top-4 points producers last season, all had a difficult time adjusting to new head coach Dan Bylsma's system and all incurred a precipitous drop in production this past season with Ennis only playing in 23 games.

Questions moving forward:  Will he be returning to the lineup 100% healthy after suffering two concussions in one season? How will the injuries affect his confidence? Can his predominantly east/west game be woven into the Sabres north/south preferences? Can he help anchor the right-side in a top-six role? How much room is there for him on the top powerplay unit? Was it work-ethic, demeanor or both that caused him to languish in Bylsma's system early on? As a talented, valuable piece with a reasonable cap-hit could he be used to help land the left-handed defenseman Murray's looking for? Has he plateaued? Or can he bump it up a notch to land in the 25-goal/55-point club?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--LW, Nicolas Deslauriers

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Left Wing--Nicolas Deslauriers
DOB:  February 22, 1991 (age, 25)
Draft:  2009, 3rd round (84th,) LAK
How acquired:  Trade with Los Angeles, March 5, 2014
Last contract signed:  2014--2yr./$1.275M
Final year of contract:  2015-16, RFA

2015-16 Stats:  70 games, 6 goals, 6 assists, 12 points, -14


What we wrote preseason:  "Deslauriers was drafted by Los Angeles in the third round (2009, 84th) as an offensive-minded defenseman" who was moved to wing because "[he] had all the physical attributes of an NHL'er while [the Kings] said,  'there’s also a good deal of inherent talent.'

"Deslauriers packs a punch while playing an aggressive game with a crazed look on his face. He can work the wall and outwork an opponent. He can drive the net and wreak havoc in the crease while also having enough finish and puck skills to be a regular contributor. He's fearless in his game and fearless when he drops the gloves, but he's not a goon. Last year was his first full season in the NHL and he gathered 15 points (5+10) in 82 games while playing third and fourth line minutes."
What we wrote mid-season:  "has a motor that's non-stop and a crazed look in his eye that says he's ready to get it on at any time. Deslauriers is in his second full season and is another one who knows his role and gives it everything he's got when on the ice."

Impressions on his play this year:  In 2014, new Sabres GM Tim Murray wanted to put his stamp on the team and in one of his first trades he brought in a couple of "heavies," as he called them. One of them was Deslauriers, a converted defenseman, and things looked very promising during Deslauriers' first year-and-a-half.

Deslauriers has all the tools to be a solid fourth-line winger who packs a punch. Quite often during his first 100+ NHL games we saw aggressiveness and a crazed look on his face when he hit the ice. Not so much through the latter part of this season. He had decent numbers for a fourth-liner in his second full NHL season, but his minus-14 was troublesome as it tied for fourth-last on the team. Those below and right around him in plus/minus all logged many more minutes and had that stat brought down by quite a few empty net goals with them on the ice. Not so with Deslauriers.

Questions moving forward:  It's one thing to have a motor and a 6'1" 212 lb. frame, but how are those traits used? Can he get back to the level of aggressiveness we saw in 2014-15? Is he still adapting to a move from defense, one that began in 2012? Will he adequately fill the role of an enforcer-type who's a legitimate fourth-liner? Will he get more than a one-year extension?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--D, Josh Gorges

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Defenseman--Josh Gorges
DOB:  August 14, 1984 (age, 31)
Draft:  Undrafted free agent signed by San Jose' Sharks, 2002
How acquired:  Trade with Montreal, July 1, 2014
Last contract signed:  2012, 6yr./$23.4M
Final year of contract:  2017-18

2015-16 Stats:  77 games, 2 goals, 10 assists, 12 points, -7


What we wrote preseason:  The trade to Buffalo, while shunning Toronto was "a decision that weighed heavily on him last season, especially with his first child on the way (born four days after the trade,) and it affected his play as he found himself in unfamiliar territory on a team barreling towards the bottom of the league.

"Last year he was shelved for the last 26 games after playing on a bad knee that got worse as the season progressed. As one of the few left-handed defensemen on the roster right now, Gorges looks to have a spot in the top-four amidst a major roster overhaul that has occurred in the last six months. A healthy Gorges (in both mind and body) will be a big boost to the Sabres blueline. He's accustomed to big, shutdown minutes and being sound in his own end no matter who he's paired with. This year, especially, he may see a multitude of d-partners as the team tries to figure out where everybody fits in. And it will be his job, along with others, to lead by example most notably by doing what they do best in whatever role they're in."

What we wrote mid-season:  "has been playing an underrated, shutdown game for the Sabres while being on the top-pairing with Ristolainen. Gorges had some injury problems last season which affected his game and ultimately affected how he was perceived by those in Sabreland. Although he doesn't look out of place next to a stud like Ristolainen, a second-pairing spot where he can be a shutdown force may be in the cards for him sometime in the near future. Should Buffalo find that top-pairing, left-handed d-man (and who knows, it may end up possibly being McCabe) then having Gorges on the second-pairing with top-PK duties would be a great thing for the defense.

Impressions on his play this year:  Steady defensive play, minimal offensive production. For a player who ranked third on the team in even-strength average time on ice/game (18:07) and second amongst defensemen in ATOI on the penalty kill (2:16,) a $3.9M cap-hit is quite the value. He also lead the team in blocked shots with an average of 2.2/game and lead the team in hits with 143 which only adds to his value.

Gorges was playing a notch above his skill-level on the top-pairing, but still managed to come away with a minus-7 rating as he meshed quite well with top d-man, Rasmus Ristolainen. Having a true pro like Gorges was beneficial to Ristolainen as he progressed nicely putting up career numbers while leading the team in ATOI. Gorges also wore the 'A' again last season.

Questions moving forward:  What you see is what you get, so how much more can the Sabres get out of Gorges should he in fact end up on the second pair with first pk-unit responsibilities? He's reaching that age where a more rugged defenseman's body will start to give way. Will health issues start to creep into the equation? Can he be a long-term fixture on the back end?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--D, Jake McCabe

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Defenseman--Jake McCabe
DOB:  October 12, 1993 (age, 22)
Draft:  2012, 2nd round (44th overall)
How acquired:  Drafted by Buffalo
Last contract signed:  2013--3yr. ELC;  $925k/yr.
Final year of contract:  2015-16, RFA

2015-16 Stats:  77 games, 4 goals, 10 assists, 14 points, +6


What we wrote preseason:  "Even though soon to be 22 yr. old Jake McCabe has made plenty of mistakes befitting his youthful status, he's done enough things right and has progressed methodically enough to the point where a good taste of the big club until [Zach] Bogosian gets back would enhance his development.

McCabe makes mistakes like any young defender but has shown the propensity to bounce back from them rather quickly. He's a smart player with enough beef to rattle some bones and enough skill to produce. Time is his friend right now and one more year of seasoning in Rochester should make him a lock for next seasons roster. Until then it will be a matter of honing his skills and adapting to an even faster pace this season.
What we wrote mid-season:  "One of McCabe's most impressive traits is his recuperative powers. He'll have a rough period only to come back immediately with an outstanding one and he'll do that with shifts as well. It's probably the most important thing a young defenseman can do--forget about his mistakes. McCabe continues to impress with his skating, smarts and hitting. He's good with the stick on defense, has a scoring touch as well, finds the open ice and has a good grasp of when to pinch. And he's only 22 yrs. old with a mere 40 NHL games played thus far in his young career.
Impressions on his play this year:  Implying that McCabe had just "enough" of this and or that proved to be an understatement as he had the goods to lock down a second-pairing role on the Sabres in his first full season in the NHL. Yes, he did make his mistakes and even went through a slump mid-way through the season but he was one of Buffalo's most consistent defensemen all season.

At 6-feet, 214 lbs. the stout McCabe was not only able to handle the physicality of oncoming NHL players, he regularly initiated contact, most notably in his propensity to aggressively stand up forwards on the rush at the Sabres blueline. McCabe's defensive prowess shined through as he lead the team with a plus-6 rating and was a mainstay on the second penalty kill unit. He's smart enough to capably man the point in the offensive zone and has enough savvy to sneak into open ice on the weak-side for scoring opportunities. Four goals and 10 assists seems as if it will be his career floor as he has much more to offer the offense.

Questions moving forward:  How much more offense can he add? As smart as he is on the point, and with a shot that gets through, will he have an opportunity to get some powerplay time? Are we scratching the surface of the amount of playing time he can handle? Is a top-pairing role aside Rasmus Ristolainen in his future? Or will he settle into being an extremely capable No. 3/4?


Happy Mothers Day!

Impressions of, and questions concerning--C, David Legwand

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Center--David Legwand
DOB:  August 17, 1980 (age, 35)
Draft:  1998, 2nd overall (NSH)
How acquired:  Trade with Ottawa  at the NHL Entry Draft, June 26, 2015
Last contract signed:  2014, 2yr./$6M (OTT)
Final year of contract:  2015-16, UFA

2015-16 Stats:  79 games, 5 goals, 9 assists, 14 points, -4


What we wrote preseason:  "The 35 yr. old Legwand came to Buffalo in the draft-day trade that netted goalie Robin Lehner from the Ottawa Senators and was a condition of the deal. If Sabres GM Tim Murray wanted Lehner, Legwand and his $3.5M salary had to be included in the deal.

Many have seen Legwand in the starting lineup opening night because he brings "veteran leadership" to the ice. Perhaps he should be looked at as the answer to "who's coming out to make room for Johan Larsson?"

What we wrote mid-season:  "most wondered what the 35 yr. old had to offer a young team like Buffalo, but he's proven to be a stabilizing force in a bottom-six role. Bylsma has been using his fourth line quite often and it's because he trusts them with Legwand on it. He's also anchoring the top penalty kill unit up-front with O'Reilly, a unit that's shown steady improvement as of late."

Impressions on his play this year:  The former 2nd overall pick who left Nashville as the leader in all career stats came to Buffalo in the twilight of his career and provided this young group of Sabres with  steady play and low-key leadership. Nothing he did was earth-shattering, yet his professionalism rubbed off on those around him especially the likes of Buffalo's other second-overall picks, rookies Jack Eichel and Sam Reinhart.

Legwand anchored the fourth line and was on the top penalty kill unit with Ryan O'Reilly as the Sabres finished 9th in the league with an 82.6% kill-rate. As a depth/role player he did his part as well as could be expected. So well in fact that the Ottawa salary dump in the Robin Lehner trade proved more than simply a throw-in, locker room guy.

Questions moving forward:  The parade of youth coupled with Buffalo's pursuit of additional top-six talent could push him out the door. Will there be room for him in a depth role, even at a markedly reduced salary?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--F, Johan Larsson

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Forward--Johan Larsson
DOB:  July 25, 1992 (age, 23)
Draft:  2010, 2nd round (56th overall,) MIN
How acquired:  Trade with Minnesota, April 3, 2013 
Last contract signed:  2016--1yr./$950k
Final year of contract:  2016-17

2015-16 Stats:  74 games, 10 goals, 7 assists, 17 points, -4


What we wrote preseason:  "Larsson has had to pay his dues while constantly overcoming failures and inconsistencies. It wasn't all that long ago that the team had Larsson in a depth role yo-yoing between Rochester and Buffalo as he was unable to transfer his game to the NHL-level and it wasn't until after the [2015] trade deadline that Larsson finally passed through the NHL threshold."

Head coach Dan Bylsma on Larsson after talking to scouts prior to his taking the reigns in Buffalo--"They liked him a lot. They thought he played a hard, kind of a sandpaper, gritty game. They scouted him as such. That’s what he’s going to bring to the table. Hard to play against, and that’s what he’s got to bring for our team."

What we wrote mid-season:  "he may also have found his place. Like Gionta, Bylsma had him up in the top six but it didn't work out so now Larsson's nipping at the ankles of the opposition on the third line. When he's on his game he's a pest, and when that line is on, they're aggressive on the forecheck, making it extremely difficult on the opposition. And right now, they're on."

Impressions on his play this year:  For the second year in a row, Larsson came on strong in the second half of the season. In 2014-15, he finally stuck with the big club and during the final 17 games of the season he had five goals and added eight assists while centering Matt Moulson and Tyler Ennis on the Sabres top line. This past season he did it again. After being moved all around the lineup for the first half of the season he settled in on the third line centering Marcus Foligno and captain Brian Gionta. Larsson finished the season with 11 points (8g +3a) in his last 20 games and a plus-4 rating.

Bylsma mentioned after a preseason game that he relied on Larsson a lot on the dot, especially in crucial situations. That faith in him spilled over in the regular season and Larsson responded well as he went from a 44% on the draw in 2014-15 to a team second-best (500 faceoffs or more) 51.1% last season. This bodes extremely well for the team moving forward.

Questions moving forward:   How much do the likes of Foligno and especially Gionta contribute to his success? Has he found a home in the bottom-six and can he up his production while remaining chippy? If the Sabres add to the top-six, what does that mean for their line? Will Bylsma keep that line together and drop them to the 4th line as a whole? Can Larsson continue to round out his all-around game?


 

Impressions of, and questions concerning--D, Cody Franson

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Defenseman--Cody Franson
DOB:  August 8, 1987 (age, 28)
Draft:  2005, 3rd round (79th overall,)  NSH
How acquired:  Free agent signee (NSH,) 2015
Last contract signed:  2015--2yr./$6.65M
Final year of contract:  2016-17

2015-16 Stats:  59 games played, 4 goals, 13 assists, 17 points, -5


What we wrote preseason:  After making waves at the 2015 NHL Draft, Sabres GM Tim Murray went in search of a veteran, left-handed defenseman. He ended up signing right-handed d-man, Cody Franson and the new Sabre laid it out as to which side of the ice he prefers to play on, 'I don't play the left side,' he told the Hotline's Kevin Sylvester and Andrew Peters, 'I actually struggle over there.'

In 2014-15 Franson was traded by the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Nashville Predators at the trade deadline. Although the Preds acquired depth, it wasn't a good fit as Franson struggled. "Just what is the perfect fit for Franson? It would seem to be on the right side with plenty of powerplay time. That should work for the time being in Buffalo, and with the Sabres defense short on powerplay specialists, he'll have plenty of opportunity to excel in that role."

What we wrote mid-season:  "when he tries to step into one from the point oft-times it sails ten feet wide and has players ducking for cover all over the zone. He's got the intensity of Thomas Vanek and can skate just about as fast, neither of which are good things. Although he has some pretty good skills and I understand why he was signed, he doesn't seem to fit the mold of what GM Tim Murray wants out of his players. All said, he serves his purpose as a very affordable 3rd-pairing d-man with some powerplay acumen."
Impressions on his play this year:  From the get-go, I never really understood why the Sabres signed the big-bodied, rather soft Franson as he reminded me too much of the core they just dismantled. But he did grow on me as the year went on and an individual stats recap highlighted his strong third-pairing play with d-partner Mike Weber as the duo lead the team in the plus/minus category for December.

But that's not what he ultimately was brought on board for. In addition to adding a veteran presence, Franson was to help anchor the powerplay and contribute from the point. He finished an injury shortened season with only one goal and six assists in 2:08 average powerplay time per game. Franson suffered a concussion on February 19 and would not play the rest of the season. In his absence, a number of players took his spot in the lineup including Casey Nelson who was signed out of Minnesota State and looked the part of a point-man on the second powerplay unit.

Questions moving forward:  Does he fit in beyond this season, the last year of his contract?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--F, Zemgus Girgensons

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Forward--Zemgus Girgensons
DOB:  January 5, 1994 (age, 22)
Draft:  2012, 12th overall
How acquired:  Drafted by Buffalo
Last contract signed:  2012--Entry-level deal (one-year slide,) 3yr./$4.2M, $92.5k annual signing bonus, $1.425M total performance bonuses
Final year of contract:  2015-16, RFA

2015-16 Stats:  71 games, 7 goals, 11 assists, 18 points, 0 +/-


What we wrote preseason:  The Sabres headed into the 2015-16 season with four top-six players locked in and the need to find a winger for Jack Eichel on the second line. Matt Moulson was a possibility based upon his success with John Tavares but we surmised that Zemgus Girgensons might end up being a better fit for Eichel for one overriding reason: Speed.

Girgensons is mainly known for his two-way game at this point in his young career as well as intangibles. He scored 15 goals and added 15 assists in 61 games the prior season but head coach Dan Bylsma gave us his perspective on Girgensons saying that he's " a heart and soul, workin', gritty guy that kinda makes them go. Is he a No.1 center in the league? I don't think anyone's gonna put him there but he's a guy I think can offer some protection to some of the younger players that are coming to the team in Sam Reinhart and the second pick overall (Eichel.)"

What we wrote mid-season:  "disappointing on the offensive side (2g, 3a) but one would think that he's not been disappointing in the role Bylsma has given him. As the third-line center Girgensons has had the unenviable task of taking on the opposition's top lines all season. And he's managed a minus-1. Former coach Jim Montgomery told us, "whatever situation he is put in the coach is going to love him and his teammates are going to love him." I can appreciate that.

Impressions on his play this year:  No matter how you look at his situation this year-- everything ranging from a former first round pick who was moved around too much to a projected bottom-six player who was miscast in a top-six, scoring role--disappointment was the overriding theme with Girgensons this season. Regardless of his production, which left much to be desired, he still was defensively responsible enough to finish the season third amongst regulars in plus/minus with an even rating.

Girgensons has shown throughout his short career that he can score but he's also shown that it takes him a while to acclimate to a new situation. It took most of the season in Rochester for him to figure out the pro game and it took him a full season in Buffalo to figure out the NHL game. Last season was yet another new situation as Bylsma brought in a whole new system and 2016-17 will give us a pretty good indication as to whether Girgensons' propensity for adapting to change will continue.

Questions moving forward:  Which year was an aberration? His 30 points (15+15) and -16 plus/minus in 61 games or 18 points (7+11), even plus/minus last season? Can he stay healthy? Injuries have been apart of the equation ever since his rookie season. At 22 yrs. old it may still be too early to tell but is he a more like a Mike Grier who can score on a breakaway? An inconsistent, streaky, Drew Stafford-like scorer?  A solid, all-situations, Curtis Brown-type? Will he continue to adapt? And maybe the big one, how/where does he fit into the Sabres plans moving forward?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--LW, Matt Moulson

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Left Wing--Matt Moulson
DOB:  November 1, 1983 (age, 32)
Draft:  2003, PIT, 9th round (263rd overall)
How acquired:  Free agent signee (MIN,) 2014
Last contract signed:  2014--5yr./$25M
Final year of contract:  2018-19

2015-16 Stats:  81 games played, 8 goals, 13 assists, 21 points, -5


What we wrote preseason:  The well-travelled, Cornell university graduate mentored 2009 first-overall pick John Tavares with the NY Islanders. It was a beneficial situation on and off the ice for both players. "I don't think Matt's ever gotten the credit he's deserved for the success I've had," Tavares said at the time Moulson was shipped to Buffalo in 2013. "Words can't really describe how much he was there for me."

Moulson and his wife Alicia took a liking to the Buffalo area after the trade. When free agency hit in 2014 he signed a 5yr./$25M contract with the Sabres and settled in. After the Sabres selected Jack Eichel with the 2nd overall pick in 2015, Moulson offered his home to the 18 yr. old, just as he did with Tavares. Expectations were lowered with the influx of talent like Eichel, Ryan O'Reilly, Evander Kane and Jamie McGinn and the third line looked like a good slot for him. "There's plenty of skill down the middle [in Buffalo] to get Moulson the puck where he's at his best. At the age of 31 Moulson can still snipe and with that ability perhaps we'll see yet another 30-goal-season."

What we wrote mid-season:  "Would you believe he's tied for sixth on the team in points? Me neither. Moulson has struggled mightily and now finds himself on the fourth line thanks to the emergence of Reinhart and McGinn on the top line. A scorer on the fourth line could mean a banishment to King Moonracer's press-box island for a game or two.

Impressions on his play this year:  Moulson finished ninth on the team in scoring and had the fourth highest cap-hit. Not a good combination. And he did find himself in the press box as a healthy scratch after going 24 games without a goal. That dubious streak would continue for another 20 games despite head coach Dan Bylsma giving him ample powerplay time and numerous opportunities playing in the top-six. But nothing worked, and early season predictions of solid production soon gave way to questions of, what happened?

Sabres GM Tim Murray openly stated that Moulson may not have been in the best possible shape to handle Bylsma's up-tempo system and it sure looked like it most of the time. Perhaps there were other pressures for a genuine good-guy like Moulson and the confluence of organizational changes with those pressures were just too much. With words like "buy-out" and "unmovable salary" entering into the equation this past season, and with the team looking to add even more talent, Moulson will need to be better, plain and simple.

Questions moving forward:  How can he get his confidence back? What will his off season workout program entail and could lack of conditioning have been the problem all along? Can he slot into a third-line/second powerplay unit role and produce enough to make his salary bearable in the very near-term? Can his 31.8% rate in the shootout to help the Sabres that way? Has age caught up with him or was his NY success more a product of being wingman for Tavares? These are a lot of questions for a 31 yr. old, and for the organization the big question would be, is he worth it?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--LW, Marcus Foligno

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Left Wing--Marcus Foligno
DOB:  August 10, 1991 (age, 25)
Draft:  2009, 4th round (104th overall)
How acquired:  Drafted by Buffalo
Last contract signed:  2104--2 yr./$3.75M
Final year of contract:  2015-16, RFA

2015-16 Stats:  75 games played, 10 goals, 13 assists, 23 points, +4


What we wrote preseason:  "Visions of a young Cam Neely danced through Sabreland when Foligno hit the NHL with a vengeance back in March, 2012, [but] that kind of success was rather unfortunate for Foligno as he forgot the type of player he was.

During the last two season "Foligno was trying to find his way in what turned out to be an especially difficult environment. [Former head coach Ted] Nolan had his deficiencies, but he managed to help more than a few players find themselves during a very difficult time for the franchise, and Foligno was one of them. For Foligno, it's no surprise that Nolan, who once coached a Buffalo squad known as "the hardest working team in hockey," got him back to creating opportunities through hard work on the ice."

What we wrote mid-season:  "another one who may have found his home. As a power forward Foligno plays a real strong game. As a scorer? Still needs work. May be settling into his role as a bottom-six player who can contribute offensively.
Impressions on his play this year:  And that's what ended up happening for Foligno. He knew his role and began to thrive in it. He set career highs in both goals and assists and during the latter part of the season he benefitted greatly from being on a line with captain Brian Gionta and Johan Larsson as that two-way line was the most consistent line. His plus-4 plus/minus rating was second on the team.

Foligno eventually settled in rather nicely within new head coach Dan Bylsma's system. As choppy as last season was for the entire team, the Sabres were more about evaluating players strengths and weaknesses and how they responded to their new environment and Foligno seems locked into his role as a bottom-six, muscle forward who plays a solid two-way game.

Questions moving forward:  Foligno is what he is, so there aren't too many questions save for, how far can he take his role? Can he become like a "Mule," ala Detroit's Johan Franson, and up his intensity-level to the point where he and his 6'3" 222lb. frame simply won't be denied? Will his stick-work around the net improve to the point where he can reach and maintain 15-goal/30-point level? Is he prepared to take on more of the big bruisers in the league like Radko Gudas and Tom Wilson when necessary?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--D, Zach Bogosian

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Defenseman--Zach Bogosian
DOB:  July 15, 1990 (age, 25)
Draft:  2008, 3rd-overall (Atlanta Thrashers)
How acquired:  Trade with the Winnipeg Jets February 11, 2015
Last contract signed:  2013--7yr./$36M
Final year of contract:  2019-20

2015-16 Stats:  64 games played, 7 goals, 17 assist, 24 points, -11


What we wrote preseason:  Bogosian was thrown right into the fire for an Atlanta franchise that was in disarray. He was mismanaged on the ice and suffered a broken leg his rookie season and two years later the Atlanta Thrashers franchise was moved to Winnipeg.

After the trade to Buffalo, Bogosian averaged over 26 minutes a game for a team that was bottoming out. "At the very least we're looking at a second-pairing, physical defenseman with Robyn Regehr-like traits who is a smooth skater, strong puck mover and one can put some points on the board. At best he looks to be a No. 2/3 who can really be a veteran anchor for a strong group of young defensemen the Sabres will be integrating into the lineup over the course of the next three or four years."

What we wrote mid-season:  "although he's recovered from an injury that had him miss the first month and a half of the regular season, he's still getting up to game-speed. Dude can really skate and rattle the boards with one of his checks. Although he's a bit overzealous in the hitting department, while also getting caught out of position because of it, he's pretty sound in his own end. Plus he's got an attitude too."

Impressions on his play this year:  As a victim of circumstance in Atlanta, one cannot blame him for having his development stunted during his first three years in the NHL. Nor can you blame him for signing the rather lucrative deal that the Winnipeg Jets offered him. But as Sabres fans we can like what he brought to the table this season, despite his shortcomings. Although he won't ever hope to be a Denis Potvin nor attain the meanness of a Scott Stevens, he's got enough scoring and grit to have a positive impact as a solid, veteran #3/4 d-man for an up-and-coming Sabres team.

Bogosian can really move at 6'3" 214 lbs. and it would seem as if he's found a home as an all-situations defenseman on Buffalo's second-pairing. Plus, he has 478 NHL games under his belt which was of particular importance to rookie Jake McCabe, his d-partner most of the season. McCabe really surprised a lot of people this season and much of it can be attributed to working with Bogosian as the two were oft-times the team's best pairing on the ice. When looking at the vet and the rookie, I'm reminded of the impact Drew Bagnall had on Rasmus Ristolainen when the latter was sent to Rochester and I can see Bogosian having the same impact on the Sabres young defensemen at the NHL-level.

Questions moving forward:  As always, the term "when healthy" seems to make it's way into the equation.  So, if healthy, can Bogosian match or better his career-highs set early on in his career? It's recognized that he's no Niklas Lidstrom, but as the game gets quicker will his mind be able to keep pace with game and with what his body wants to do? And at 25 yrs. old and with nearly 500 NHL games under his belt plus obvious leadership qualities, will he be wearing an 'A' in the near future as the old-guard gives way to the young-vets in Buffalo?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--RW, Brian Gionta

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Right Wing--Brian Gionta
DOB:  January 18, 1979 (age, 37)
Draft:  1998, 3rd round (82nd-overall,) NJD
How acquired:  Free agent signee (MTL), 2014
Last contract signed:  2014--3yr./$12.75M
Final year of contract:  2016-17

2015-16 Stats:  79 games, 12 goals, 21 assists, 33 points, -5

What we wrote preseason:  "Gionta headlined a trio coming to Buffalo making the Sabres the surprise of the 2014 off-season. The Greece, NY native (a suburb just outside of Rochester) knew what he was signing up for when he signed a 3 yr. contract with the Sabres. [He] was brought in mainly to provide leadership on a rebuilding team that would be seeing a large group of prospects making their way to Buffalo beginning this season.

"At the top of that leadership group is the 36 yr. old Gionta who will be integral in trying to build a winning attitude off of the disaster that was last season. The vets all have their roles in that regard, which is to pass on their experiences to the youngins. While on the ice they'll be taking the pressure off of the kids but off the ice Gionta says they'll be 'showing them how to be professionals, showing them what it's like to be in the NHL day-in, day-out.'"

What we wrote mid-season:  "Started the year off real strong but has fallen back a bit. At 36 yrs. old shows bursts of speed that had him keeping up with the big dogs on the top lines. But that was earlier in the season. May have found a home on the third line with Girgensons. Has been the best, most consistent line three games running."

Impressions on his play this year:  Gionta missed the first three games of the season with an injury and upon returning to the ice, Sabres bench boss "Dancing Dan" Bylsma proceeded to use him up and down the lineup. Oft-times, much to the consternation of the fan-base, one would witness Gionta logging big, top-six minutes and while miscast on a skill-level, his skating ability kept him in the play.

His skating ability and vast experience would serve him and his linemates well as he fell down the depth chart to his proper third-line role on the Sabres. Gionta, Johan Larsson and Marcus Foligno would form the Sabres most consistent line through the final 20-25 games of the season and the captain played a big role in helping those two find their games. Leadership, especially one that totes a Stanley Cup ring like Gionta has, is invaluable on a young team. Although the Sabres as a team made great strides, having a captain being disappointed with the participation trophy, as he often said during locker cleanout day, will keep this team on the right track.

Questions moving forward:   At age 37 and in top shape, how much will he have to offer the team heading into his final year of his contract? Who will he have a positive impact on next season? And peeking a little bit beyond, could he and the Sabres find a match for one, maybe two more years in a limited role at a reduced cap-hit?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--LW, Evander Kane

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Left Wing--Evander Kane
DOB:  August 2, 1991 (age, 24)
Draft:  2009, 4th overall
How acquired:  Trade with the Winnipeg Jets, February 11, 2015
Last contract signed:  2012--6yr./$31.5M
Final year of contract:  2017-18

2015-16 Stats:  65 games, 20 goals, 15 assists, 35 points, -14


What we wrote preseason:  Before all the collateral off-ice incidents entered into the equation during his professional career, scouts were drooling over Evander Kane's powerforward frame and ultra on-ice competitive nature. It was something not lost on Buffalo GM Tim Murray, a long-time scout himself, when he traded for Kane. "You watch him play on the ice," said Murray at the time of the trade, "he plays hard. He plays in traffic. He doesn’t play a perimeter game; he plays a heavy game. He scores goals from around the net. He plays the game right. He finishes checks. He’s a good fighter. I don’t know how much I want him fighting. That’s his character on the ice."

As for the off-ice drama that accompanied Kane, Murray stated a well-hidden truism in sports, "I can tell you the best of the very best players have warts, but I can’t talk about them."

Such is the dichotomy of Kane.

What we wrote mid-season:  "missed 10 games due to injury but has kicked it up with six goals and three assists in his last 13 games. Needs to keep his north/south aggressive game rolling. He and Eichel on the same line hasn't been a total disaster, but try connecting the same poles of two different magnets."
Impressions on his play this year:  You  know what they say about leopards and spots, and the first half of his first season in Buffalo was his pro career in a nutshell--promise, inury and, of course, off-ice incidents. But a funny thing happened on the way to lynching him and Murray, Kane changed everyone's perception of him with a selfless act in his return to Winnipeg. With an open net in front of him and the opportunity to shove it in the face of the entire city and the Jets organization, he instead fed rookie Sam Reinhart who hit the empty net for his first career hattrick.

Although another event a month later--oversleeping after hanging at NBA All-Star Weekend and being suspended by the team--would prick the aura of a complete Saul-to-Paul transformation, there's reason to believe that Kane may choose to further separate himself from his off-ice image and focus his energies more on the ice. And there's the rub.

Questions moving forward:  There's a duality in Kane that will always be there, the question is, how much can he keep his off-ice image, and the baggage that comes along with it, in check? And because he plays a rugged north/south game, what can be done to minimize injury without compromising his powerforward game? He has all the skills to become a perennial 25-30 goal scorer, but can he find that happy medium between selfish (the want/need to score) and selfless (the need to incorporate his teammates into the play) to attain that standard?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--D, Rasmus Ristolainen

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Defenseman--Rasmus Ristolainen
DOB:  October 27, 1994 (age, 21)
Draft:  2013, 8th overall
How acquired:  Drafted by Buffalo
Last contract signed:  2013 ELC; $950k/yr. + $850k yearly performance bonus
Final year of contract:  2015-16, RFA

2015-16 Stats:  82 games, 9 goals, 32 assists, 41 points, -212


What we wrote preseason:  Ristolainen was the player the Sabres keyed on at the 2013 NHL Draft and they got him. Despite being NHL ready, after the management team was blown up that season, Risto was sent to the AHL. After the season was over, he went back to Finland to work out and came to development camp chiseled as if to say he never wanted to go back to the AHL.

"Ristolainen ended up making the Sabres roster and averaging 20:36 of ice-time for the 2014-15 season," and after Tyler Myers was traded, "[his] ice-time would increase substantially. In the final 20 games of the season, he would not see less than 20:58 minutes of while hitting 28:00 minutes or more three consecutive games.

"He has physical attributes as well as the drive to excel. He has tremendous hockey sense, is a strong skater, he positions himself well and has a strong physical presence to his game as well as some offensive acumen. The only thing missing from his resume' is full-time experience in a top-pairing role."

What we wrote mid-season:  --"[Ristolainen] "has become an absolute beast." Those aren't my words (at least not my exact words, I called him "a bad man") rather they came from Ryan Kennedy of The Hockey News. Ristolainen is all of 21 yrs. old and he's leading the Sabres blueline in all categories while leading the team in total ice-time. He's also on a pace to score almost 60 points, something that hasn't been done since recent Hall of Fame inductee Phil Housley (81 points) did so back in the 1989-90 season."

Impressions on his play this year:  Although he didn't even hit the 50-point mark, Ristolainen had a very strong offensive season doubling his point production from 20 in 2014-15 to 41 last season, good for a top-25 placement amongst NHL defensemen. His 25:16 average time on ice placed him 10th in the league and he was the only Sabres player to play in every game this year. The dude was a workhorse for Buffalo last season and being the stud he it was expected.

As the season wore on, however, Ristolainen's effectiveness diminished, sometimes to the point were he looked like a rookie. The pace of the game got to him a bit and his focus shifted a bit as the team wanted to seem more bite come out of him. He's a 6'4" 207 lb. physical specimen who was drafted as a d-man with some sandpaper to his game, yet that aspect hadn't made it's presence known to any discernable degree. At 21 yrs. old the team has him working on rounding out his game, which is a good thing.

Questions moving forward:  Will "The Angry Finn" (as head coach Dan Bylsma called him) be able to channel Chris Pronger in becoming both fearless and feared? The more emboldened he becomes, the bigger and tougher the player coming back at him. Will he be able to up his production once again? He lead the team in powerplay assists with 17, can he be counted on to command the first powerplay unit? How well can he manage his time on ice to avert late-season slumps? And, maybe the big one this off-season, will he and the Sabres negotiate a long-term deal or go the bridge-contract route?

Impressions of, and questions concerning--Sam Reinhart

Reprinted with permission from hockeybuzz.com


Forward--Sam Reinhart
DOB:  November 6,1995 (age, 20)
Draft:  2014, 2nd overall
How acquired:  Drafted by Buffalo
Last contract signed: 2015--3yr. ELC; $925k/yr. + $2.65M yearly performance bonus
Final year of contract:  2017-18

2015-16 Stats:  23 goals, 19 assists, 42 points, -8


What we wrote preseason:  Reinhart spent most of the 2014-15 season in junior with instructions to hit the gym whenever he could. "[He]took that challenge to heart while also playing dominant hockey, especially in the 2015 World Junior's. He came into the Sabres 2015 Development Camp stronger and looked bigger on the ice. He stole the show at the scrimmage with two goals and an assist.

"Reinhart has shown the ability to dominate while playing against his peers, something that bodes well for the future. Near-term, however, he'll need to prove that he can adapt and produce at the NHL-level. Rochester is always an option should he have trouble adapting, but that "fighting weight" of 190, his improved skating, a familiarity with how the pro game is played and his off the charts hockey sense should keep him in the NHL for the rest of his career.

What we wrote mid-season:  "After a slow start, has really found his groove. Reinhart has been working with O'Reilly after practice and it shows as he's improved shot (8 goals on a 12.3% shooting percentage) and has really developed chemistry with O'Reilly. Kid's got the hockey sense and ample skill, is beginning to figure out how to overcome minor size-issues at the NHL-level. Leads the team in plus/minus with a plus-2.

Impressions on his play this year: His goal-scoring touch was a revelation as he had a great rookie campaign scoring a team second-best 23 goals. Gotta hand it to him. As a second-overall pick he was beset by challenge's ranging from GM Tim Murray's instructions to bulk up during a busy junior season to adapting to the physicality of the NHL as well as a move to the wing this season. He came into the season looking boyish, but he rose to every one of the challenges he faced and at locker cleanout we saw a man exuding confidence and ready to begin preparing for next season.

Reinhart's maturation process and the success he found this season can be attributed to a number of things--his own professional work-ethic and drive had him on the ice before and after practices honing his skills, Ryan O'Reilly's work with him during those sessions, and head coach Dan Bylsma put Reinhart in positions to succeed beginning with a net-front presence on the powerplay and a spot on O'Reilly's wing where the two found game-time chemistry. It all worked marvelously.
Questions moving forward:  How much more can he improve his skating? Reinhart's hockey sense allowed him to keep up with "Jack Flash" Eichel and the two are looking like a duo headed into next season, anything he can do to increase his better than average skating will only make that line faster and more dangerous. Can he add a few pounds without hampering his overall game? What will he do for an encore? Is a 50-60 point season out of the question for him next season?