Sabres Finish In Style

I won't bore you with a full recap of the Sabres regular season finale.  Everyone is well aware that the playoffs are out of the question for the Sabres and this game was as meaningless as the Dominic Moore trade turned out to be.  With that being said, it was nice to see the Sabres come out with a purpose early.

Both teams were without some of their best players, the Bruins were resting some while the Sabres had some injuries.  It was the Sabres that took advantage of the Bruins depleted roster, scoring four first period goals to take complete control of the game. 

It's amazing how much different this team plays when they have absolutely nothing to lose.  I've preached about how talented this team is time and time again and games like tonight prove they are talented.  The problem with this team is and has been confidence.  It's tough to win hockey games and when you always worry about making mistakes.

Vanek Hits 40

Thomas Vanek scored two goals in this game to hit the 40 goal mark for the second time in his career.  It took a power play goal with only 16 seconds left to help Vanek hit that plateau.

It was nice to see Vanek hit that milestone but it was better to hear him in the locker room saying "It means nothing without making the playoffs".   Vanek is one player that has really matured over the past couple of seasons and will likely mature even more over the next couple of seasons.

Farewell Teppo

Unfortunately for Teppo Numminen, it became painfully evident that the game has passed him by.  He will likely retire but either way, he has likely played his last game with the Sabres. 

Numminen played in place of Toni Lydman tonight and registered an assist on the Sabres last fourth goal scored by Daniel Paille.

Butler Keeps Playing

Chris Butler scored his second NHL goal tonight and after the game he was sent to Portland to play for the Pirates in the playoffs.  The Pirates will be happy to welcome Butler back in the lineup and he will get some valuable playoff experience.

Roll Call

I apologize for missing the last open thread of the season but sometimes the real job gets in the way...today was one of those days.  Thanks to everyone who commented today and throughout the season.  Today was the last open thread on Die by the Blade but we still have time to adopt a team and join in their open thread.

Roll Call: HO, Stanley Cup of Chowder, Joan O., qdloser
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Up Next

Locker clean out day nd a huge off-season for Die by the Blade.  We have plenty of things planned for the off-season and hopefully we are ready to take Die by the Blade to the next level.  Keep checkig in everyday and we promise you won't be disappointed.