Western New York native and fan favorite Justin Bailey did not make it through the first round of cuts made on Monday. He was sent back to the Kitchener Rangers in the OHL. Another forward Nick Baptiste had impressed in the Traverse City prospects tournament potting some goals as well, but his overall game still has some ways to go and he has gone back to his junior side Sudbury Wolves.
The OHL representation did not end there, as 2012 Entry Draft 3rd round pick Justin Kea was also sent back, to Saginaw. The Spirit’s season starts on Thursday, but it is possible that Kea’s linemate Eric Locke will not be joining him as he is still in Buffalo’s training camp squad. The only d-man to get axed was Connor Boland, who will be going back to the Peterborough Petes, also in the OHL.
The last cut was forward Logan Nelson, who went back to Victoria of the WHL. He had a pair of goals in the Blue & Gold scrimmage and one in the Traverse City tournament, but will be going back for his third year of junior hockey.
The Sabres are currently at 56 players in their training camp roster – 33 forwards, 17 defensemen and six goalies. They play their next preseason game in Columbus tonight.