It's not much of a surprise that the Sabres sent some players packing and back to their respective junior teams. It's nice to get these guys in and get a taste of the NHL camp but it is equally important to let them play with their junior team and get more work towards their development.
Buffalo Sabres General Manager Darcy Regier announced today the team has returned the following eight players to their respective junior clubs: forwards Luke Adam (St. John’s, QMJHL), Paul Byron (Gatineau, QMJHL), Tyler Ennis (Medicine Hat WHL) and Jacob Lagace (Chicoutimi, QMJHL); defensemen T.J. Brennan (St. John’s, QMJHL), Nick Crawford (Saginaw, OHL), Drew Schiestel (Niagara, OHL) and Jordon Southorn (Prince Edward Island, QMJHL). This leaves the Sabres with 49 players still in training camp.
In the next week or so you will start to see more players sent away and the Portland Pirates roster will start taking shape as well. The Sabres practice today through Friday from 10am-1pm at the HSBC Arena and all sessions are open to the public. If you are interested in the bubble guys that may or may not make the roster the list is below.
On the Bubble
- Clarke MacArthur- there is no denying that Clarke MacArthur has the talent to play in the NHL the question is his desire. He seems to play well for five or six games and than he disappears for five or six games.
- Andrew Peters- How long does the team hang on to a guy that has almost no hockey talent and does not belong in the NHL?
- Nathan Gerbe- I was of the belief that he should play in Portland this season but after watching how much talent he really has I am being swayed in the other direction.
- Marek Zagrapan- he's almost definitely going to Portland but if he plays like he did Monday in Toronto, he may see some time with the big club this season.
- Patrick Kaleta- He probably secured his spot with his play last season but he has to be on the list.
- Mark Mancari- He still needs some work in Portland but could become a good player.
- Nathan Paestch- He is likely to make the roster based on his experience but could find himself in a situation where he needs to clear waivers
- Mike Weber- He is likely to start the season in Portland but he is expected to see significant time with the Sabres this season.