Yes, we all know hockey is back, the lockout is over and the season has started. I don't mean 'back' in that sense. I mean it's back. The game I grew to love over 30 years ago, that is back! The end to end rushes, the constant nail biting as each team has scoring chance upon scoring chance. No more sitting on a one goal lead, the rules being called doesn't allow for that. The boys have to fight, skate, and play hard for the entire 60 minutes. Each rush on goal brings you to the edge of your seat, you can't help but cheer if you score or your goalie makes the stop.
The Sabres played again last night. They met up with the Boston Bruins, a division rival and a team that we will play 8 times this season. Boston has been selected to finish rather high in the division, and most reports, as of now, have the Sabres at the bottom of the standings. I think it might have something to do with the movement over the off season, or lack there of by Sabres management.
The game last night started out a bit slow. Both teams looked a little sluggish and were waiting out the other. The score was 0-0 after the first period. The Sabres had 3 power plays and did not convert on any. The Bruins had no power plays, and I admire the boys for playing such disciplined hockey. About 7 minutes into the second period with the Sabres on another power play JP Dumont scored. Vanek made an unbelievable pass across the front of the net to a waiting JP. No one on the ice thought that was the pass Vanek would make, usually in that situation it goes out to the point. JP was alone and Raycroft could not slide over quick enough to stop the puck from crossing the line. Vanek has not scored yet, but I have no doubt his numbers will be great this year. His vision is unreal, and the ability to hold the puck and slip through defenders is awesome. It's only a matter of time before he lights it up himself. With a few minutes left in the second Grier was credited with a goal. Tallinder took a shot from the point that Drury, then Grier deflected past the goalie. At the end of two the Sabres were up 2-0 and Ryan Miller was standing on his head, and did have some help from the post on a shot by Leetch. The loud 'ping' as the puck careened out of harms way has got to be the most wonderful sound to a goalie, I know it is for the fans!
Six minutes into the 3rd Murray spoiled Millers shutout. It was a beautiful set up off the face off and Murray got away from the defenders and was able to get a quick shot off and in. Play went back and forth with Boston pressing in the zone to tie the score. On a clearing pass out of our end Gaustad fed the puck to Kotalik breaking down the ice. His shot was hard and quick beating Raycroft. About three minutes later Afinogenov rushed the same way beating Raycroft again, almost the exact same shot. Score- Buffalo 4 Boston 1. What a way to start the season! Sure, only 80 more games to go, but I like what I see!!
Total shots on goal last night were 77, 36 for Boston 41 for Buffalo. That itself says exciting!! There were fewer penalties tonight, a total of 10. I think maybe the players are finally learning it will be called. NHLPA stood up for the rules to be called and most players were on board but of course wanted to see if they could get away with it. Lets hope the league continues to call the game this way, it is a good thing for all concerned!
Off to Ottawa tonight. Hasek will surely be in net, and the Sens are predicted to win it all this year. This could be a true test. Go Sabs!
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