[open thread] Sabres vs. Hurricanes

Time: 7:00 TV: MSG(HD) Radio: WGR55

I want to apologize for the lack of recent posts to the site but we are back in full force.  Tonight the Sabres will look to rebound from the tough loss on Wednesday to the St.Louis Blues.  The Sabres allowed a goal in the last minute of play to allow the Blues to gain the victory.

The Sabres and Canes have started a little bit of a rivalry over the previous two seasons, dating back to the 2006 Conference Finals when Carolina beat the Sabres in seven games.  The Sabres controlled the season series last year but Carolina has beaten the Sabres in the only meeting between the two teams this season.  

The Sabres announced a Winter Classic house party.  If you were unable to get tickets for the Winter Classic at Ralph Wilson Stadium you can join 18,000 of your best friend at the HSBC Arena.

Check out these previews as well:

Sabres.com Preview
Lets go Sabres.com preview
Team Leaders

Buffalo Sabres

• Goals:Derek Roy, Jochen Hecht 8

• Points: Derek Roy, Jason Pominville 17

• +/-: Daniel Paille +6

• PIM: Paul Gaustad 36

Carolina Hurricanes

• Goals:  Eric Staal 14

• Points:  Cory Stillman, Rod Brindamour 31

• +/-: Glen Wesley +7

• PIM: Justin Williams 43

Projected Line combinations

Buffalo Forwards
26-Vanek, 9-Roy, 21-Stafford
55-Hecht, 41-MacArthur, 29-Pominville
12-Kotalik, 19-Connolly, 61-Afinogenov
37-Ryan, 28-Gaustad, 20-Paille

Buffalo Defensemen
6-Spacek, 51-Campbell
5-Lydman, 4-Pratt
44-Sekera,38-Paetsch

Goaltenders
30-Miller, 35-Thibault

As per usual this thread is meant to spur conversation and create a Buffalo Sabres community.  If you're watching the game you might as well join us and chat a little bit.  I highly recommend you create a free account and grab a beer and join us for some good conversation.