Best. Picture. Ever.

Hey Liiiiindy...

by Ryan

Hear me out, okay?

You have to give Paul Gaustad the C for the good of the league. Because, if you name him captain for the month of January then I'm going to have to buy this:



Yeah, $200 worth of merchandise from NHL.com. That's more than Florida Panthers ticket sales for the entire year.

This is for the good of the league, Lindy. I mean, you wouldn't listen to me when I was all rational and logically thinking, but you're a realist. You play a fun and gun style because it's exciting and better for the league. You understand the New NHL. Well, that new NHL needs some cash money right now, and you can help them out.

Lindy, I will buy this. I swear to you on the name of the blog, if you give Goose the C it will happen.

Make it happen.

Impossible

by Ryan

This is normal Gary Roberts:



This is normal Tim Connolly:



This is impossible:



Actually, that is very likely, but this:



Is impossible.

Timmy Connolly should be dead.

The Sabres lost 2-0 tonight at the lackluster feet of Ty Conklin, but honestly after that hit it was sort of a moot point.

Seriously guys, there is no freaking way Tim and Gary Roberts should collide and Roberts end up in a heap. I'm as big a fan of Timmy as anyone, but I know Connolly, and he's as fragile as they get. I mean, is there anyone on the Sabres you make "smelling burning feathers" jokes about other than Tim?

Tim Connolly has a cranial structure softer than tissue paper. He has been concussed more times than Troy Aikman. Tim Connolly is the reason I started using the term "concussed." He is the only person I have ever heard of that has regained post concussion syndrome by flying in an airplane.

So... this is the guy that broke Gary Roberts' leg?

Blasphemy.

I don't have "another" hockey team, but I do like watching the Penguins, and I'm not ashamed to admit that Gary Roberts is the man. He is only second to Goose on my "meast power rankings", and the fact that he won't play in the Ice Bowl truly does cut me deep.

There will be better tributes than I can muster, but let it be known that today in the Goose's Roost we mourn the loss of Gary Roberts. He will be missed on New Year's Day, even though he will probably heal within the hour and search for Timmy to murder in cold blood.

On Tuesday, Gary, the wings are on us.



Godspeed.

Get Ready...

Sabres v. Penguins

7:30

Without the Winter Classic being the back end, this would be the stupidest home and home in the history of hockey. Now it will be one of the coolest weekends in recent memory.

Sometime between now and Tuesday I'll be buying some snow pants. In the meantime, let's see if we have what it takes to stop Malkin and Sid the Kid.

It's not the Ice Bowl, but it's a nice little warm up to it.

A Trip to the Farm

By Chris

I took a road trip down the 490 last night to take in my annual holiday Rochester Americans game. Had to take in some Dinosaur Bar-B-Que first, of course.

They didn't really look all that impressive early on, depsite a 2-1 lead heading into the first intermission but played a strong second and coasted in the third to pull out a 4-1 victory.

Marek Zagrapan registered two goals and an assist and might just be the real deal when he gets his chance in the NHL. Zags does so many things well. He's a great skater, has arguably the best set of hands on the team and even finishes his checks. His assist came when he hit Peter Aston for a breakaway as he skated out of the penalty box. He's got great vision and has the potential to be a star when he's ready.

Speaking of finishing checks, Pat Kaleta is a missile. He just takes runs at everyone and everything. If he's going to want a job in the NHL, he's going to have to learn to be very responsible in his own end, and he's getting the opportunity to improve in that area by playing on the penalty kill. He took a cheap shot late in the third, and although he didn't play another shift, he didn't go to the locker room either. Got treatment on the ice, skated on his own to the bench and just sat down. Kaleta's a warrior. If he ever makes the Sabres, he's going to be one of those guys that you either love or have to pretend to love if you don't want your fanhood questioned.

Andrej Sekera and Mike Weber showed why they are Rochester's top defensive pairing. Sekera looks great, but not quite ready to handle the NHL full-time. Weber is big and mean. I personally liked what I saw from him in his brief stint with the Sabres and he can only get better. Both players should make strong cases as to why they should be in the NHL out of training camp next fall.

In net was Panthers product Tyler Plante. He's got the skills and fundamentals to make it to the NHL but I'm not sure how far he's going to go as long as his mask has Ricky Bobby and Chazz Michael Michaels on it.

It's a shame that when I head out there next year, there won't be any Sabres on the roster. Maybe a second road trip to wherever that may be.

Friday Night Recap

Man I love playing the Devils...

Sparky's Back!

The Sabres come off a tough loss against Ottawa with a matchup against New Jersey. This is the first time we will see the Atlantic Trappers this season, and they will be our last opponents before the Penguins marathon that comes with the Winter Classic.

I'll be honest and tell you I completely looked beyond this game. I've been following the Pens pretty closely over the past few days, and Jersey just doesn't interest me. They are leading their division, however, so I'm sure they are as good as usual.

That spells a tough, shutdown style of game, and one that those focused on the aesthetic beauty of the game may want to avoid.

Sparky MacArthur should be back in the lineup now that Drew Stafford is concussed. Hopefully Drew will get better, but it will be interesting to see how Clarke plays on his latest trip up the 90.

Miller's Sweet New Headgear

From Sabres.com :

Goaltender Ryan Miller is working on a new mask. Or more to the point, trying to break in a new mask before next Tuesday.

The art work on the mask holds similar elements as his previous one - "Miller Time", "Matt Man", a bulldog with a Michigan State Spartan green bowler hat, the current Sabres logo - but does have a couple of new items, including a retro logo on the crown.

This mask, like all of Miller's others, was a creation of Bishop Designs, www.bishopdesigns.com.

Miller will auction off the mask following the NHL Winter Classic. Specifics haven't been finalized yet, but proceeds will benefit Miller's Steadfast Foundation.

Strike Up The Band

Musical guests have been announced for the NHL AMP Winter Classic/Ice Bowl/Outdoor Game/Maybe the NHL will actually get something right.

Roost favorite Doug Allen will sing the Canadian national anthem.

Irish tenor and Sabres fan Ronan Tynan will perform "God Bless America" (of course) and hopefully he'll do the Doug Allen Point for everyone.

And some guy from Canada will be performing another song during the second intermission. Sam Roberts? Brothers from across the border, please enlighten me as to who this guy is and if he's any good. He's won a Juno Award three times, so that must be good right? Is a Juno Award something that new movie can win? Then again, never mind Canada. You guys gave us Celine Dion actually like Nickleback.

UPDATE: I just gave Sam Roberts a quick listen. It's as good if not a little bit better than a lot of stuff out there today but I can't say I'm blown away by it. Easy on the ears, should be a decent performance that I forget about twenty minutes after it's over.

The NHL loves brining in musical acts for their big events so that they can feel like all the other big league sports (like during the All Star Game and the post-season Awards Show) so bringing in a Canadian band that I'm not sure anyone south of the Peace Bridge has heard of is no real surprise.

At least they didn't feel compelled to bring in the Goos.

Drum Roll Please...

Almost boys, almost.

On the EDGE of the Holidays

by Ryan

Today is Boxing Day.



Ugh.

Anyways, tonight the Sabres look to stay hot against Ottawa. No matter how you look at it, this will be a tough game. I'm very, very close to feeling okay with this team as far as consistency and effort is concerned, but you never know how they will play day after Christmas. Hopefully they take care of business so we can start gearing up for New Year's Day. I hear they have something special going on then.

There are a lot of articles about the Winter Classic coming out, but this one was pretty interesting.

According to Williams, the Reebok Edge II jersey will make it’s debut Jan. 1.

“The Edge I jersey that came out this season was the one with the play-dry impregnated on the front with real tight sleeves,” he said. “Since then, because the players complained so much about the sweaters, they have developed the Edge II they call it. The jerseys do not have the play-dry in the front; it is more of an air-knit material like it used to be. There are also bigger sleeves."

That's not something that has been widely reported as far as I know. Lots of teams have been complaining about moisture problems with the new EDGE uniforms, some have even gone as far as killing the system and going back to last year's fabrics.

I'm not sure what that will mean for measures like this (I would assume they would ask the Caps to try again), but it is good to see RBK actually listen to the players when they tell them their product is complete garbage.

Man, Frosty Can Dangle...

Merry Christmas from The Goose's Roost.

Ugh

About Last Night

By Chris

I'm still trying to gather all of my thoughts on last night's hockey thriller. We started this blog in May of this year, right when all seemed lost against the Senators in the playoffs. None of us here in the Roost ever really got a shot at going through the motions and thrills of last season.

So when you have a game like last night's Sabres-Flyers barn burner, a game that reminded you of a comeback game from last season, what can you possibly say? It was the perfect game to take into a small break. All of the emotion and energy that was poured into that effort drained not only the players, but fans as well. I know that after last night I need a four day break from hockey.

Last night was just one of those games that you can look at a few months from now at peg it as one of "those games." It could be THE turning point. Sure there have been a few games that looked like that could be the moment (the Tampa overtime, the Thibault shutout, the MacArthur overtime winner, the Carolina blowout come to mind), but just looking at the celebration after last night's game, they look like a unified team out there. And it's about damn time.

Philadelphia icing that puck with under ten seconds to go was the best break the Sabres have gotten all year. For Kotalik to win that draw, for the team to get that shot set up, for Hecht to get the shot off, for Vanek to deflect it, for that red light to go on with 7.2 seconds left...you're just left drained. The Sabres looked like the Sabres of the last two seasons that we've come to know and love, and at times despise.

Usually in games like that, special teams are the difference. Both teams went just 2-8 on the poweplay, but Philadelphia's two shorthanded goals 55 seconds apart in the second that tied the game 3-3, should have been it, right? Maybe the four minute penalty kill at the end of regulation countered that.

A big knock on the Sabres is that they're just not physical enough. The last two games have shown that, when push comes to shove, they can step up and hit. They're probably not physical enough for a seven-game series, but for small stretches, they're more than up to the task. And leading the way is Jaroslav Spacek.

"Spacho Man" looked like a $3.33 million bust coming into this season. What he has done is step up his game and Lindy Ruff has awarded him with more ice time, a full time spot on the powerplay and an "A" on his chest. Spacek's been good all year, but he's been at his best this month ever since he was awarded that letter. He's been physical and that cannon of a shot has, no question helped the offense. Sure he may talk like the Cookie Monster, but the guy has earned every penny of that contract he signed two summers ago. Right now, he looks more deserving of a longterm deal than Campbell does. Then again, keeping them both and having Lydman-Tallinder healthy may give you one of the best top four corps in hockey when all are healthy and playing well.

I still think the captaincy should like with Hecht, though. He's shown up on the ice and I'm sure the players respond to his veteran leadership. He gives his all on every shift and has solidified himself as the team's best two-way forward, a title he had before Drury took on that role after the lockout.

And then there's Ryan Miller. After a shaky start, he's been nothing short of spectacular. He's the main reason the team is riding a six-game win streak into the Christmas Break. He's locked down and zoned in and in December, I'd be hard pressed to find a goaltender that's playing better. Even the losses haven't been that bad. The entire team was outplayed in Anaheim (it could have been worse than 4-2 if Miller hadn't been in net), no one showed up against the Kings, and Alex Auld flat out stole the game for the Bruins in that 4-1 loss. Miller is finally playing like an elite goalie and as long as he can stay healthy, Ruff will continue to give him the brunt of the workload. More than anyone, it's his team.

Last night, Miller gave up five goals but he was still pretty solid. It came down to the shootout and he got it done.

Last night had it's low points, sure, highlighted by the two shorties and Mair's inability to keep his cool late in the game. But looking at the bigger picture, the Sabres are 19-14-1, in 6th place in the East with 39 points and have won 13 of their last 17 games. And for a team that was supposed to suffer offensively, they're currently fourth in the league in goals for behind three division leaders (Detroit, Carolina and Ottawa). Not too shabby. When this team is playing well, they're extremely tough to beat. Unfortunately they haven't been very consistent until recently. They either look legit or like scabs. And they're finally showing that they're capable of stringing some wins together and be a force to be reckoned with.

As shaky and as mediocre as they've seemed this year, they're right in it. And the next 12 games coming up are against conference opponents, with three against the Senators and another against rival Toronto. If they can keep the streak alive, it's a great opportunity to collect some points and work their way up in the standings. Only four of their remaining games are against teams in the West. Just nine points behind Ottawa for first in the Northeast, every point is valuable. Let's go Buffalo.

Elisha's Big Day

by Ryan


The Bills can't make the playoffs.

However, the Giants can. They need a win to get in, and considering they play the Pats next week, this is easily their best chance.

Isn't it fun to be a spoiler?



Let's see what you got, Mr. Manning.

"The Briere"

by Ryan


Just after this



and before this



was something that summed up every single emotion involved with this home and home series.

Miller did "the Briere."

You know exactly what I'm talking about. That little "slide on the ice fist pump" thing. Miller did that after he stoned Jeff Carter, rolling over to knock the puck off his stick juuuuuuust enough to end the game.

To me, that is the highlight of the season right there. We went into Philly and robbed two points from them. Regardless of the missed chances and non-calls and douchebaggery that took place, the fact of the matter is we tied the game with nine seconds left, then survived a frantic overtime period to win in the Ales Kotalik Delight shootout.

If that isn't the prototype of a huge weekend, you just aren't a hockey fan.

The thing that gets me is that in this game it seemed Danny Briere really became a Flyer. Yeah, Friday he was wearing orange and black and taking shots on Ryan Miller, but tonight he became everything we actually hate about Philadelphia.

Anyone who has watched Briere closely over the past few years knows his game. He gets rattled when played physically and not given penalty calls against. It happened twice alone last year, when he speared two Capitals, getting a game misconduct on the latter occasion.

I'll be the first one to admit that I loved his game when in Buffalo, but a realist knows that every player has holes. Briere's knock was that when he gets frustrated he takes penalties, or at the very least acts undisciplined. This gets him off his game, and he gets frazzled very, very easily.

When he was "giving Jaro the business" tonight, you knew it was a different player you were dealing with. Danny Briere is no longer ours. He is still the same player, but that warm and fuzzy feeling associated with him before just isn't there anymore.

Does it mean we should boo? No, not yet. But as far as I'm concerned, he is most certainly "one of them" now.

So it goes.

The good news is the result of this series: four points. We went 2-0 against the Flyers, overcame tough injuries, and mocked a player with something to prove against a former team. This team is still in the mire of mediocrity in the Eastern Conference right now, but it's hard not to call them good.

Being at this point at Christmas, after all the bad games and frustrating performances, I'd say I'm more than okay with this.

Where Leaders Are Made

HSBC Arena has a quick changeover today: Hockey to "big time" college basketball

All I can say is, WE MUST IGNITE THIS COUCH!


A full story is sure to follow.

A Thought on Booing

by Ryan


Danny Briere got booed tonight.

It was something I had hoped would not happen. Everyone is going to have an opinion on this, but I think there is something that I should address with the whole booing thing:

What exactly did Danny Briere do to us?

Miro Satan was a jerk on the way out, and we boo the crap out of him, even now. Jagr has always been a douche, and Chara is a neanderthal. All understandable, and even necessary at times. Still, all of these can be seen as petty and baseless in the right mind.

So again, what did Briere do to us? Besides, you know, give us the best offensive seasons of his career, some clutch goals in important games, and be willing to negotiate with Buffalo before going on the free agent market?

The fact of the matter is this: the Sabres lowballed Briere with their offer before July 1st. It wasn't an error in judgement, it was a calculated move that showed they "tried" to get both stars. Quinn and Darcy picked Drury as their keeper and pushed hard while still giving Danny an "offer" that turned out to be a good $4 million short.

If you are going to boo, go find Larry Quinn's house and have at it when he takes out his recycling bin. He's your target.

Danny Briere owes nothing to us. He is a hockey player on another team, and regardless of the good memories and well wishes, he doesn't have to root for us doing anything. That certainly doesn't mean we should boo him, though.

How does a player like Pat Kane get vocal fellatio just for growing up here while Danny Briere gets booed? Both players play with other teams for big money, and while one player is celebrated just for being born in the area code the other one is hounded for not playing within it his entire career. I'm not saying we should have shipped in Briere's grandfather, but the least we could do was not act like he slapped our sisters on the way out of town.

There is such a thing as a boo not meant for a player. Penalty calls are an example of this. If a questionable play, say a hook or interference isn't called for your team, then a similar play is whistled down against, many fans boo. The booing isn't against that particular play, but the first one that didn't get called. What is being ridiculed is not the penalty (which in most cases is a good call) but the lack of consistency.

However, I don't think that is the case with Briere. People actually seem mad at him for leaving, even calling him a sellout or knocking his huge contract. Again, it seems trivial to blame him for taking a $10 million/year deal. Just like Vanek, how can you not sign that deal when it's offered?

The point is, Daniel Briere is a good hockey player. He is going to score goals, and they won't be on our side of the scoreboard. This happens all the time, folks. Players switch sides every year, and with free agency it is only going to get worse. It's business, and if you want to kill a guy for doing what's best for his family, that's your problem.

Some other thoughts on a great game at HSBC tonight:

- Peters fought Cote like a drunken midget attacks a package of twinkies: clumsy and off balance. Not a good effort from Petey.

- Has anyone else noticed Jaro is in a contract year playing really well lately? Some big hits and great looks in the offensive zone. Thank God the D is coming around. (Oh, that's Campbell that's a UFA come July? Wow. Could have fooled me...)

- Scottie Upshall is a pussbag. It was nice to see his clock get cleaned. Hey Scottie, when you turn twelve ask your parents if you can drop the "ie" from your first name. You sound like a terrier.

- The short list of former Sabres you should boo over Danny:

Mike Grier (commitment to winning)
Slava Kozlov (Achilles made of tissue paper)
Andy Delmore (wherever he is...)
Hasek (If you don't know, go home)
Cory Sarich (Won a Cup with Tampa, Croatian)
Morris Titanic (Celine Dion)

I'm open to suggestions...

- This game was a huge win for the Sabres. Two points is always nice, but to see them overcome some adversity, play well the majority of the game, and dictate a lot of the physical play shows some versatility this team has lacked at most points this year. Putting some old demons to rest in Briere and Biron may also help with confidence issues they have at times.

After the game Campbell talked about being back to playing "Sabres hockey", which is a good sign any way you look at it. This team can be good. Not great, good; and tonight they showed it. That just may be enough to make some noise when everything is said and done.

Man oh man do I love home and home series. Let's do it again Saturday at 7.

Cox Gobblers Not Named Michael Bolton

by Ryan

If you've ever taken an English class this will look very familiar. Pick a side and argue. Try to use proper English.

It's not hard, but why does that conversation between Scott Burnside and Damien Cox read like two paraplegics humping a doorknob?

Articles like that are what makes me hate ESPN's coverage of hockey. The whole premise of the piece was to debate a single event, the Winter Classic. The result was boring, unfunny, and outright insulting at times. Did they even do research on the game? I mean Christ, there was more discussion of grammar then the actual event. Endeavor? Palaver? Toque? Do you guys want to play Scrabble or talk some hockey?

I've never been a fan of Damien Cox, but does the guy always have to be such an asshat? "Boo hoo, you can't see. It will be cold. Whah whah." He sounds like the 85 year old complaining about the Ice Bowl that was behind me at the Isles game last week. His complaints were followed by his companion asking "So... are they playing field hockey?" I think that shows the level of hockey IQ displayed in that argument.

His best quote was the following:

The notion that the NHL will add a single new fan is preposterous.

Wow. Let's throw absolutes around while making arguments, I'm sure that will end well. I'm sure it is possible someone will could be converted into a new hockey fan. I know how impossible it may seem, but some poor soul that gets sucked into watching the game on NBC may actually enjoy what he sees and want to view more. Nah, you're right Cox, there's no way hockey can gain new fans. Let's just not bother marketing the game altogether. New Jersey.

I find that anytime I actually read the garbage ESPN.com has for hockey I get pissed off. The problem is that Cox is a douchebag that enjoys playing devil's incompetent advocate, and Scott Burnside is an fing terrible writer. He makes Skip Bayless look like Hemingway, and knows less about most teams then Rob Ray knows about words with more than three syllables.

Don't even start about their reserves. Linda Coen gushing about Ottawa? Getting doe-eyed over Gomez and Drury? Gag me with a spoon. And while I do like John Buccigross, sometimes he is just as unreadable. Ask him how good the Panthers are going to be. Just ask. Uuuuuugh.

I guess what gets me so mad is that this really is what the majority of sports fans have to endure when they venture into some hockey coverage. People just don't know about alternatives like Deadspin's "NHL Closer", or sites like James Mirtle's blog or the excellent Kuklas Korner. If sports fans knew there were people who can actually write about hockey and make it sound as fun as it can be, I think things would be a lot different for hockey in America.

At the very least, Norby could hire someone that knows what the hell is going on.

Gary Roberts Approves

Wow. Not only did Sid the Kid actually show some fight, he drew blood from a man. Not even an ice girl or anything.

You know what this means? Man-beast Gary Roberts had a man-to-man talk with Sid. It's the only explanation for Crosby using his balled up fists for something other then clutching doorknobs.

I think he most likely asked Roberts for some advice after Gary beat the tar out of Ben Eager. The poor kid was so scared he fled to Chicago. Okay, so he got traded, but he's not in the division anymore, is he?

This recent development leads to a possible fight between Pomminville and Crosby in the Ice Bowl. What? Pommy's still a nancyboy? Oh yeah, forgot about that...

Mistletoe for All

by Ryan

I almost wanted to go to the game tonight. Seeing Marty, Danny, and all those new Flyers would have been some fun.

Then I realized it was a gold game, and I'm freaking broke. Then I saw this.

I'm as big a fan of Christmas as anyone, but I'm just not going to dress like a festive fool for a Sabres game. I'm sure they would just love to see me wearing this with two of these on my feet, but it just isn't happening.

The whole game seems like it will be a big deal to some, but I have mixed feelings on the whole "Back to Buffalo" tour. Sure, hearing Marty on the radio again was fun, but I've really tried to focus on this season and this season's players. I've made the effort to forget about this summer's free agency dealings and just focus on the team we have at hand. That includes forgetting the salary numbers behind Danny as well as big signings like Vanek and Roy.

So yeah, seeing Danny and Marty back on the ice at HSBC will be interesting and even a little strange, but I don't think I would be booing or cheering or in tears. The fact of the matter is that our managment made the moves that put these players where they are. They didn't pick us, we didn't pick them, and money is money.

It may be a pansy nihilist perspective, but it's the truth. Darcy wanted to give Marty a shot as a starting goaltender, and blackballed Danny to take a crack at Drury without officially throwing Briere under the bus. It wasn't my decision, but it was the gameplan that Darcy and Friends went with.

Whether I am okay with that or not, it's what happened. What we have to live with is the repurcussions of those moves and simply focus on the team we have. If that includes giving a cheer to an opposing player when their name is called with the starting lineups, so be it.

But please, nothing more than that.

Going once... Going twice....

By Jon

By now, it's undoubtedly old news that the blue seats from the Aud are being auctioned off. A unique piece of memorbilia to be sure, and as a wannabe memorbilia enthusiast (meaning I'm too poor to be one), I just can't seem to get excited about it. And it is killing me.

I want to have memories of the Aud. I really do. Unfortunately, my age doesn't allow it. My earliest Sabres memories trace back to the 96-97 season, the first year played at HSBC (then Marine Midland) Arena. I'm certainly not at a loss for great times as a Sabre fan. I can't watch a video of Derek Plante blasting the puck past Ron Tugnutt without getting chills, nor can I think of the 05-06 or 06-07 seasons and not think of what might have been. But I yearn for stories of sitting in the oranges and feeling like I was going to fall out of my seat. I wish I could talk about watching LaFontaine or Mogilny fly down the ice, or tell my grandkids about the French Connection, but I can't. In fact, the only event I ever attended at the Aud was a Buffalo Blizzard game (Remember them?)

I would love to place a bid on a pair of seats or a sign from the Aud. But without any sentiment attached, what's the point?

My question to you: Will we remember HSBC Arena with the same fondness that we do the Aud? Twenty years from now, will we be clammoring to buy up the seats from the 300s?

I sure hope we do. As a newer generation fan of the Sabres, HSBC is home. So good luck to all of the older Sabres fans, I hope you get a piece of the Aud. But I'll wait until they start gutting the next arena until I buy some seats.

Outshot. Outplayed. Two Points.

by Ryan



That picture pretty much says it all.

Ryan Miller gave us the kind of performance we want to see, and stole a game on the Island last night.

Now while I am certianly not happy about the team's performance as a whole, I am glad to see Ryan stand on his head for once. Looking back, it's hard to distincly remember the games he's outright stolen for us. A goaltender's ability to keep a team in a tough game is absolutely invaluable, and when the Sabres are as streaky in overall play as they have been it is almost necessary.



As usual, Miro Satan was a shadow of his former self.



Overhead shots are fun.

Goose didn't score tonight, but Max got another goal. I'm sure that made at least eleven more people want to trade him.

Also, Adam Mair absolutely handled Tim Jackman in a fight. Good to see one of our real tough guys defend a teammate.



At home, Chris Simon bit his couch in half.

I Thought Sekera Got Sent Down?

by Ryan

The Bills brass made a big move today, claiming Balls off waivers.

If you don't get the joke, you obviously sleep much more than I do...

The Best Peters in Town

by Ryan

So Jason Peters was named to the Pro Bowl today. It's kind of crazy to remember him as the freaking huge tight end who came in as a rookie covering kickoffs like a deranged bouncer. Now he's the one of the best O-Lineman we have. What a four years it's been indeed.

Now while I do love me some Jason Peters, the whole Pro Bowl thing reminds me of something I was thinking about on Saturday night while watching a replay of the Sabres game:

I feel bad for Andrew Peters.

Petey takes a lot of crap around here, especially from me, and I don't feel bad about that. Let's face facts, people, Andrew Peters is almost worthless to this hockey team. He barely gets ice time, doesn't fight well, and when he does get the chance to run his mouth he challenges the entire Anaheim team to a fight. Not good times.

What does get to me is the fact that Andrew Peters is a lot like us in more ways then you think. Sure, he's the hockey equivalent to that gigantic douchebag always starting stuff in your office (surely you are not that douchebag...) but when talent comes to mind, he may be your best friend.

Case in point: Petey miked up on Saturday night.

He was nothing but encouraging to his teammates, screaming accolades from the bench and congratulating on goals. Yeah, good teammates do that. What got to me is the last shot of him sitting on the bench. He's next to Vanek, who just pulled off a pretty impressive goal, getting cross checked to the ice twice before netting it in the slot.

So he is sitting there and pauses for a second, then tells Vanek a second time "nice goal." Vanek is all Austrian and gives him a nod, then looks back to the ice.

There it was. You could see it in Andrew's eyes: "I'm never going to be able to do that."

Just for a moment, you could see right into the very being of Andrew Peters. Because when it comes down to it, he's an inferior hockey player. It's not a matter of making a team, someone somewhere will always have room for an "enforcer" like him. Still, he will never get to do the things first line players do.

Shootouts, power play time, a chance to play with great passers or elite play makers. For the rest of Andrew Peters' hockey life he will be a 4th line winger asking "You wanna go?" whenever possible.

When it comes down to it, that's still a pretty good life. He has a prominent role in the NHLPA, and let's face it, any of us would kill to be on a pro hockey team, let alone be a "fan favorite", as some like to call him.

Still, it was hard not to feel for him staring out onto the ice just then. It brought me back to so many times I've realized I'm not going to be where I want to be with certain things in life. I'm never going to be a great hockey player, I'm never going to be good enough with a guitar; and who knows if I will be satisfied with my career?

It's a scary thing to equate yourself to a hockey tough guy, but it makes so much sense to me why I get so happy when a guy like Petey scores a goal or even registers a point. That out of the ordinary behavior is exactly what all of us mediocre human beings want to achieve in life. All of us, to put it plainly, want to be good at things. Even if it is as temporary as a red light flashing.

Costas, Duff, and Sherpas

by Ryan


We haven't posted much post-snow game, but some interesting Sabres news has crept up on us.

The D has been getting a bit healthier, and with Dimitri Kalinin ready to come back tonight against the Islanders, our favorite Ostrich has been sent back down to Rochester. Finally, our long national nightmare has ended.

The Winter Classic has been sneaking up on us, and it was announced that Bob Costas will hosting on January 1st. Awesome. If he's anything like he is on "Football Night in America", I'll want to ram my head through a wall. With joy, I'm sure.

Anyone who needs a last minute Christmas gift may want to consider looking here for some sweet Ice Bowl stuff. If you think that throwback Goose jersey isn't going to get bought at some point you just don't know me. Also, I would reccomend getting the hat shown below for anyone who has the guts to wear it.



Paul Gaustad approves of its name as well.

As far as tonight's game, well... it's the Isles again. Let's go through a short list of what we know about Long Island's finest:

- DP is solid.
- Mike Comrie is a nancyboy.
- Miro Satan will score when given a perfect pass on a 5-3 power play but can't finish when on the doorstep in the dying seconds of a playoff game.
- That old guy who has their C is still pretty decent.

Yep, nothing new there. Hopefully the Sabres don't let this one slip into the "letdown game" category after a solid stretch of games over the weekend. I would hope that they get the job done against the basement of the Atlantic. Let's be honest, we need the points pretty bad.

Also, is it just me or should Nassau play Hilary Duff music at every chance possible?



If I ran the gameday music for HSBC I would play Duff nonstop during Isles games. The guy isn't deaf, you know...

Hey Look, Non-Steroid-Related Cheating!

by Rich

I'm currently on the road between Miami and Buffalo, but there are certain things I just can't resist commenting on. Especially after the...Bills "game." It's nice to hear some heartwarming news like this.


Man. You know you're dumb when you go to FSU and still have to cheat.


When reached for comment, Bobby Bowden did not appear to be aware of the situation and kept asking Mark Schlabach "You gonna bring me my pecan pie now, boy?"

The Snow Game

by Ryan


The Sabres don't play until Wednesday. That means the final score of 8-0 will sit with me for a long time.

I'm not sure what there is to say about yesterday's game. It was one of the more frustrating Bills games I've ever watched. Weather was most certainly a factor, and with conditions the way they were it's hard to take anything away from the game other then the final score.

8-0. The Bills allowed eight points and lost. Sometimes that's just how it goes.

The fact of the matter is that this team is not playoff worthy. Heck, this team plus 14 players on IR may not be a playoff team; but you know what? I'm okay with it.

The Buffalo Bills are 7-7, and more than likely will finish at .500. After the devastating start to the season we had, I'd say there is most certainly a silver lining in that number. As we always say around here, next year will be different.

Still, today I'm not thinking about numbers. My thoughts rest on the emotions I'm left with after yesterday's game. The excitement that came with that first glimpse of snowy chaos in Cleveland, and the feeling deep in my stomach when Josh Reed missed that block and I realized it was over.

We will miss the playoffs once again. For those that can't handle change, it will be very comfortable around Buffalo the next two weeks.

Hey, at Least the Dolphins are Still...

Oh.

Wow, yesterday sucked.

Top of the Deck

by Ryan



I hear... that our two headed monster gets a +1 when it snows...

Today's Forecast:

by Ryan

Let it freaking snow.

My "I Was There" Post

By Chris

Not exactly a View from the Roost, but I was at the game tonight and here are just some quick thoughts on the Sabres 3-1 victory over the Blackhawks, overshadowed by Pat Kane's homecoming. And rightfully so.

-It was my first look at the HD scoreboard in person, and all I have to say is "Wow."

-As I was walking back to my seat from overpaying for French fries (turns out it's a better deal to spend an extra three bucks and get four surprisingly-good chicken fingers with the fries), I was distracted for just a second from the ginormoustron by a call from Ryan. The Faux Roost sign was up over Section 309. Those bastards.

-I was really impressed by the reception Kane got. Everyone was waiting for him to get out onto the ice for warm ups and not even there did he disappoint, roofing a wrister on his first practice shot.



The ceremonial puck drop was also a very sentimental moment. Kane and Brian Campbell were met at center ice by Pa Soupy, Pa Kane and Grandpa Kane and received a standing O from the crowd. It was nice to see, not only for the Kane family, but for the entire Western New York hockey scene.

-And then it didn't take long for me to stop liking Kane. The Pride of Buffalo snapped home a shot just two minutes into the game. I didn't cheer for that, but there were plenty who did. Yeah it was nice to see, but as soon as the clock started ticking, the kid was the enemy.

-Miller saves. The Sabres netminder played exceptionally well tonight and is one of the main reasons the Sabres were able to pull out the W. The save on Ruutu late in the third was one of the stops that made my jaw drop.



-The Vanek-Roy-Stafford line was very good tonight. The moved the puck well and showed the kind of swagger you need from your top line.

-Overall I thought the effort from the Sabres was very good. They had a few mental lapses here and there, especially early, but they actually worked hard, especially along the boards, and got through the night. A few nights off should bode well. Hopefully.

-I was kind of disappointed in Tallinder. He's been out of the game for awhile now so I'd like to think it's just a matter of getting the rust off.

-Why Sekera is in over Pratt I will never understand, unless Pratt has some sort of injury I don't know about. Sekera will be a pretty good defenseman, don't get me wrong, I'd just like to see him get a little more seasoning on the farm before he's starting over veterans. Especially veterans that I suddenly like.

-I've been hard on Campbell the last few games, especially. I haven't posted my thoughts here, but I just didn't like what I was seeing out of him in the defensive zone. He was watching plays develop instead of being more proactive and has been caught eying the puck into the net. Tonight, I thought he played pretty well. His offensive talent has never really been a question, but I thought he was much more responsible in his own end tonight. Maybe it's because of the "C" he's wearing on his chest that makes me extra-critical of him, and I haven't been a huge fan of his over the past few seasons, but I did like his game tonight. Hopefully it's a sign of things to come.

-If the C was to stop rotating tonight, I'd leave it with Jochen Hecht. He's been a leader all year and his play in the last month or so has been nothing short of excellent. I'd give a letter to Goose, based just on work ethic and then leave a letter with Lydman on the defensive end.

-I think Chicago is about a year and two good players away from being serious contenders. They've got a real good core of young talent and pretty good goaltending. They have the building blocks to be an elite to for many years to come, which is good, because it'll be fun to cheer for Chicago then.


-Arena hosts are unnecessary. The PA announcer did everything tonight and I was absolutely fine with it. If not for the Pickleass disaster last spring and the stupid contest this summer, I probably wouldn't even make a point of this.

-Afinogenov played a good game. I actually saw him pass it to a teammate as he crossed the blue line and everyone was actually onsides! It could just be a good stretch for him, but I still think the Sabres would be better off moving him.

Then again, Darcy Regier has made only four trades in-season during his ten-year tenure that weren't around the trade deadline. For the record, these are the four in-season non-deadline deals:

11/12/97: Andrei Trefilov to Chicago for a draft pick
12/18/98: 1999 2nd round pick (Milan Bartovic) to LA for Donald Audette; Claimed Roman Ndur off waivers (Darcy was busy this day)
1/23/00: 2000 8th round pick to LA for Vladimir Tsyplakov
11/6/02: Jason Woolley to Detroit for future considerations

If history is any indication, there's a a good chance we won't see anyone on the move until late February.

Footprints and Tiebreakers

by Ryan


Unless you are an actuary it is pretty hard to figure out the Bills' playoff tiebreakers. Yeah, overall record, head to head, conference record... but after that it gets pretty fuzzy for most fans.

What is crystal clear about tomorrow is this: the Bills have to win.

Sure, some rocket scientist may be able to swing a way for a playoff birth with the aid of natural disasters and ancient runes, but the fact of the matter is that a win tomorrow is the reality of the situation.

It's a tough match up to say the least. The Browns score a lot of points, and until recently we did not. Their defense is a bit lackluster, and so we may be able to match them if we execute properly. I look back to the early season Browns/Bengals game where they both scored 40+ and the way we put up points against the Bengals earlier this year for that stunning conclusion.

Still, I would rather have a match up against playoff caliber team in order to make the playoffs. It may sound a bit unorthodox, but think back to the last time we were in serious playoff contention.

In 2004 the Bills won six straight games against lackluster teams to give themselves a shot at a wild card spot with one game remaining. That last game was against the 14-1 Pittsburgh Steelers. It was the last test of the season, and the Steelers even rested most of their starters for that game. What happened?

The Bills lost 29-24, eliminating them from the playoffs and proving they simply weren't good enough to compete with playoff caliber teams, even with backups in.

This year the situation seems a bit similar. We have beaten the teams we are supposed to, and lost to the superior teams (Dallas, Pittsburgh, New England, etc.). The difference is that left on the schedule are good teams. The game of the year has become every game we still have a shot, including tomorrow, next week against a 9-4 Giants team, and a season ending match up against an underachieving Eagles team.

I guess what I'm saying mirrors what I said before the Jacksonville game, if the Bills win enough games to put them in the playoffs, based on who they have had to face they deserve to be there. Beating teams like Cleveland will erase the doubt early season match ups and crushing losses like Denver and Dallas have put in the minds of many fans. Sure, it may be wishful thinking, but the truth is once you make the postseason the standings no longer matter.

It's common sense. I know it sounds stupid to say "if you win games and make the playoffs you deserve to be there." But the difference is the teams you play. In 2004 we played who was in front of us and had a good record. The same thing can be said for this year with Miami and Cinci and such, but the next two games are the benchmark. You beat the Browns and Giants and not only are you in a position to make the playoffs but compete in postseason play. For all the times we've said "please just make the playoffs", It would be nice to maybe win a game if we get there.

So are we a playoff team?

I guess we'll find out in the snow tomorrow.

The Pat Kane Game

By Chris

When I was sifting through games for my mini pack, this one caught my eye. December 19. Chicago Blackhawks. The 'Hawks only come to Buffalo once every eight years (that will change starting next season) and they have an up-and-coming team. Plus there was the potential Patrick Kane, the 2007 #1 overall pick and Buffalo native, might be on the team at that point.



Turns out, Kane's been with the team all year and is the leading candidate for Rookie of the Year. He currently leads all first-year players in points. The dude's good to say the least.

So now that the game is here, and there are rumored to be about 500 of Pat Kane's friends and family cheering him on, it should be a great game to be at.

It's my first of five games, and no, I won't be putting up the official Roost sign. Or the faux sign for that matter. I don't have those kinds of perks.

Puck drops at 7 p.m. The more shots the better.

I Wish I Could Write Like This...

"It all started long ago in a far away place called Hollywood where two birds, Sam the Eagle and Betty Bird, met and fell in love."

Oh boy do I love mascot stories. They really do warm the heart.

Everyone knows the Capitals are pretty bad. They are tied for the fewest points in the league, and I would say they were in last if not for the sick jerseys they sport. (Again, we've covered this before)

Still, Ovechkin has more goals than all but three of our players have points. I'd say he's pretty dangerous. We should keep an eye on him or something.

Now that we've gone over game notes, let's get to the important thing: mascots. This is the story of the Caps' mascot Slapshot. It's pretty terrific stuff. I laughed, I cried, I rummaged through some luggage for giant bird eggs. Just all around good times.

Still, you can't deny how sweet the older version of their mascot was.



Look at that thing. It's so hardcore it has freaking talons coming through his sneakers. Classic.

Sabres @ Caps tonight.

If there was ever a time to get on a hot streak, it's now.

Do it.

It's Pictures Like This...

That make me love everything about our running back.

My God I cannot wait until Sunday.

Andrej Sekera is Straight Up Gangster

by Ryan

iTunes playlist doesn't lie. I mean, look at the kid.



If that face doesn't say "AYO TECHNOLOGY!!" I just don't know what does.

Santa Claus in Mitchell Report

by Ryan


Our innocence was shattered today when an unnamed source cited Santa for use of illegial substances on the Mitchell Report, which will be released later today.

No word on the nature of the substance, but rumor has it the fabled peppermint HGH was his drug of choice.

"No way he gets all those presents there in one night without some help," says a source with ties to Claus' holiday operation. "He's been using for years. Under that suit he's pretty jacked."

Millions of children around the world were shocked to hear the news, but general concensus is that Christmas will still be had.

"It makes me sad to see, but I really want those presents," says little Jimmy Roberts, 6, of Niagara Falls. "Besides, nothing is proven and Santa's always been such a nice person."

Six year old Cindy Stevens of Lockport had a more ominous take.

"I hope Rudolph isn't jucing," Cindy said, "I don't know what I'd do."

The official report will be released today at two. Until then, all eyes are on the man in red.

Farewell, Console Television

by Ryan



Hey buddy, I need to talk to you. I'd tell you to sit down, but you're kinda already doing that. Just uh... just turn the volume down a bit, okay?

We need to talk about us, man. We've had a lot of good times together. Super Bowls and Cup Finals, even a good movie or two. But things are... a bit fuzzy between us. Sometimes your sound goes out, and a few times I've just lost touch with you altogether.

Sure, you've been like a father to me because, well, you're older than I am. I really appreciate all the things we've been through, and all the things you taught me. I won't forget anything, really, but... well... tomorrow I'm having a new friend come over.



No, no, not Peyton. He's way too annoying to bring in here. I mean the TV: 46' LCD. It's a Sony. I know, I know, I'm cheating out of brand, but times have changed. It's acceptable now. Things are so much clearer between the us, too.

Now I know this may be sudden, but I hope you don't take this too hard. It's not you, it's your output. SD is old school, and in a way that's really cool. But I hear it's going to be out of style for a long time come 2009. I just can't take the risk of you not being around for me.

Besides, we'll always have the basement. Every once in a while I'll come down and we can hang out just like old times. Maybe I'll even play some old school NHL 98 with you, just to keep that good thing we have going alive.

Until then, you're just going to have to live with the fact that you've slipped a bit. Don't worry, I'll still remember you. But after a while, it may get a bit fuzzy between us. Hey, you started it, buddy...

A View From the Roost: Islanders 12/13

by Ryan



5-3 Final.

We didn't put the sign up tonight. I actually forgot it, but you can consider it a Cold War stare down towards Section 309, who apparently had their crappy sign up last game. They were a no show tonight.

Aaaaanyways, some thoughts on the game.

- Monday: 45 shots, 1 goal. Tonight: 41 shots, 5 goals. Seems a bit more realistic, huh?

- It was nice to see Pratt get his first goal. He's been playing really well recently, and is making me more and more excited about sending Balls Sekera down. C'mon Hank, let's end the Andrejes reign of terror already.



- Were they double-shifting Timmy tonight? Yahoo's box score only says he had about 24 minutes of ice time, but it really seemed like he was out there every other shift. I don't know if Lindy thinks he's Joe Thornton, but I didn't mind his game at all tonight. If he can handle the workload, by all means.

- One of the things I love about Connolly is his unlimited amount of "almost moves." He has become such a good passer and stick handler that he is willing to try anything that pops into his head. Tonight he did some sort of behind the back move that actually put the puck through the defender. He couldn't get around him, but the crowd went nuts for him almost doing it, which I really can't blame them for. If Timmy ever makes one of those work, or actually gets a few more shots on, look out.

- Goose is a beast. Then again, you know already know this. He drew a penalty, then set up the first goal that nullified it. I guess if you think about it he killed his own buzz, but he played another good game. (Lindy, I'm begging you, throw him a cracker. One shaped like a letter...)

- Penalties were crappy again. The referees have been so uneven on calls this year I'm surprised teams know what to do anymore. Goose trips a guy in plain view, then Lydman gets a call for leaning on a guy behind the net. I wasn't aware it was possible for a makeup call on a makeup call, but I'm pretty sure it happened tonight.

I really am not complaining because penalties were called against the Sabres. I'm capable enough as a fan to accept when someone on my team does wrong. But you can't tell me officiating has been consistent in any way. From game to game, heck, period to period, the way the game is called is different. When Lydman starts holding a guy to break up a two one one, it's a penalty. But when he starts holding him at the blue line, and the penalty isn't called until he almost runs him into the post after the play stops? Seriously?

The "Classic Sabres" game they showed before the warmups was from 1990. In it both goaltenders got run, Foligno was hooked all the way through the neutral zone, and interference was everywhere. No penalties. If that's the form the NHL wants the game to slip back into then fine. But call it that way game in and game out. I won't complain about it if it's consistent, even if it is choppy.

- Trent Hunter sucks.

Overall the team played pretty "meh". Defense was pretty lax once again, and I'm beginning to consider changing Sekera's nickname from "Balls" to "Blind Backpass". He seems partial to it. The offensive effort was there again, and without a few great saves by DP this game is a blowout. The same can be said for Miller, who stoned Comrie early, grabbed Duff's number, and called him a nancyboy, all in the same save.

Still, it's what I said I wanted. A win is a win. Taking two points from a team we should beat, I guess that's all that matters.

Hopefully they do it again on Friday, because the Caps are just as mediocre.

Quest for .500. Again.

by Ryan


So the Sabres play tonight against the Islanders.

No word on whether Mrs. Mike Comrie will grace us with her presence. Heck, we don't even know what Sabres team will be in the building tonight.

We haven't played the Isles since the home and home series that opened the series. Since that time we have gone 13-12-1. Hey, at least we're .500 in that statistic.

Honestly, I'm not sure what there is to say about this game. If the Sabres put forth a good effort it shouldn't be a problem. Then again, we put forth a pretty good effort offensively on Monday and there was a problem.

Looking back on the season, I keep coming back to that Isles game on opening night. The Sabres came out absolutely flying, obviously emotional from the ceremonies held before the game and the amazing energy from the crowd.

Both the team and the fans seemed to understand the moment perfectly: all this is nice, but there is a larger goal to be had. No one touched that trophy at center ice, and no one in that crowd was satisfied with some regular season success. That "Let's Go Buff-a-lo" chant was probably the loudest I've ever heard, and the one that had the most purpose since the Aud closed so long ago.

Then the game started, and that feeling continued.

Less then three minutes in, Jaro crushes a slap shot just after a power play ends. It was just like old times. That first period was run and gun, flying up and down the ice, just like so many games we've seen last year.

But as that first period ended with the score 3-3, there was a sense of defeat in the air. Perhaps the players realized it might not work like it used to, or the fans were too concerned with our play in the defensive end. Whatever the case, I think a lot of people realized at that moment that this isn't the same team we had last year.

Since then it's been more of the same. Lax defensive play, people questioning "the system" in place, and suspect effort and consistency. We just don't seem to win those close games anymore. Whether it is that our staggering amount of luck just isn't there, or that expectations are too high for a team that's just too young. Who really knows what the summer did to this team?

For me, it doesn't matter. I don't need a fantastic team in front of me to get excited about. I don't need to blow teams out. Since July 1st I have known this team just isn't going to be the same and have accepted that. When your front office tells you the Sabres will be "less competitive" this year you better believe them.

The truth is, I want to win games. I don't care how, I don't care through what means, and I certainly don't care if it's pretty or not. My generation has seen more ugly hockey in the past then you can imagine, and out of all those games, the wins still mean the same.

If it takes Goose running a a goaltender. If it means Max takes a hit to make a pass. If it takes Roy or Pomminville actually making contact with an opposing player. So be it.

Win hockey games. And start tonight.

Christmas Shopping with Joe Benanati

by Ryan



Joe Benanati: My my, isn't that a fantastic looking dasher-board display over there, son?

Junior Benanati: Uh... you mean that wall?

Joe: No partner, I mean the cornucopia of excitement placed upon the dasher board manifestation.

Junior: It's just some extension cables, Dad.

Joe: Aaaah yes, the manpower filament! What an exciting purchase to ponder. Any thoughts on our recent struggles to maintain conduits?

Junior: Um... yeah, we could use a few more. We bought a lot of Christmas lights this year.

Joe: (Deep monotone) Scooore! (Pause) Junior Benanati.

Andy Brickley: Smarht decision there. No time wasted. Takin' the lowah prices and gettin the job done.

Junior: Mr. Brickley?!? Where' you come from?!?

Andy: Just stayin' on topa things, Juniah.

Joe: Indeed, partner.

Junior: Whatever. Can we go, Dad?

Joe: Drop your ponies, pal. It is indicative we investigate the steam room furnishings heretofore.

Junior: Fine. Bed and Bath is this way. (under breath) That's the last time we get him a thesaurus for his birthday...

A Thought on Winning

by Ryan


Over the past few months this blog has been around I've slowly slipped into the local blogosphere. It's been a heck of a ride to say the least. Looking around I've found a lot of people have opinions that I don't agree with, or even ones that make me dislike the idea of blogging in general.

Even so, I've found that many have strong opinions that open new areas of thought for me as a hockey fan. No matter how many awful sites or mediocre posts I've stumbled across, that one comment or thought is worth scanning so many others for.

As most of you are aware, the Sabres are struggling. All of us have wondered why this is, why they can't seem to put forth a consistent effort and win the games they should. The perfect example was Monday night against Boston. The Sabres put up 45 shots against a goaltender who was 50-50 lifetime and they scored just one goal.

That game left me downright dumbstruck. Aside from the crippling defensive errors that directly resulted in goals, the Sabres didn't put forth an awful effort. One thing a commenter in the BfloBlog game thread said really got me thinking.

vtTom said: "Everybody has their “A” game on against “last years” Pres trophy winner - farm team hands pull nickles out of their butts to show they can stand up against last year’s measure."

It was something I honestly hadn't considered before. This Sabres team did win the President's Trophy last year, the best team in regular season play. So much is said of the "Stanley Cup Hangover" that plagues so many championship teams in hockey, when every team sees you on the schedule and wants to match up against the champs. I know I certainly was eager to play Anaheim for that very reason last week.

So does that same target get applied to the President's Trophy winner?

I certainly didn't think so. I really never have looked at the team with the best regular season record with any real disdain because in reality it doesn't matter. Sure, it's a heck of a nice banner, but postseason performance is what really counts. Before last year I always assumed the Red Wings or some other Western Conference team won it because they seem to finish with more points. It's just a trophy, nothing more, and it will never have the glory and legacy of the Cup and a championship.

However, his theory may hold some water after all. It would certainly explain why Alex Auld played his balls off on Monday, and why we can't seem to win games even with a solid effort.

One problem we may have is our perception of the team. Whether we realize it or not, we became a feared offensive force last season. The national media that actually covers hockey recognizes the Sabres as this machine, and I think that translates into the way other teams look at us. The Sabres are expected to score goals. Lots of goals, and in an explosive fashion.

Last night Benanati mentioned Afinogenov's "familiar skating style", which was surprising because I wasn't aware Max was really that well known. Maybe the rest of the league knows more about us then we think, and that knowledge adds a pressure to perform well against the team that was so dangerous last year.

It is only a thought, but one that is worth considering. We are playing teams that we rarely see, and they may peg their match up as a test much like the "test" we thought a game against Anaheim would be. It is more then possible that the other 29 teams and their fans place this team on a pedestal, with the goal to knock the regular season king from atop the mountain.

If that's the case, they are doing a heck of a job so far.

A great big bear, a way up there!

By Jon

Not really sure if this qualifies for sports news, but apparently a descendant of Davy Crockett has killed a 445-pound bear.

Big deal, right? Well...... I guess the conquerer of said bear is a ripe 5-years old.

I'm not an outdoorsman by any stretch of the imagination, and I'm sure this will draw the ire of hunters everywhere, but for some reason I don't see this as an accomplishment. I'll take the human with a gun over a bear any day of the week. But this story does beg to ask one question..............


WHY ON EARTH DOES A FIVE-YEAR-OLD HAVE ACCESS TO A GUN?

Not to get all "gun safety laws" on everyone, but for some reason I feel like this shouldn't happen. What kind of five-year-old has enough common sense to handle a weapon properly?

And if anyone disagrees, I would love to hear the pro five-year-old gun owners argument.

Secret Santa: Roddy White

What's in that box you ask?

You see, we at the Goose's Roost are giving Roddy White some common sense, gift wrapped. Because, well, Roddy White is a moron.

Mike Vick is going to jail on federal charges for dog fighting, killing the animals, and investing millions of dollars to fund a gambling ring that supported said dog fighting. The earliest he can get out is May 2009 and he could still face state charges.

It's great to see the Falcons setting such a great example. No wonder Petrino resigned...

Kevin Everett in Sports Illustrated

Here's a great piece on SI.com on Kevin Everett's recovery. It's the cover piece in this week's issue.

"The Road Back"

Them? Again? Really?

by Ryan


After a trip out West to face teams they haven't seen in two years, the Sabres come back home to a familiar opponent.



At this point, what don't we know about the Bruins?

Savard is a beast, and averages over a point a game against us. If he scores tonight I wouldn't be shocked.

Phil Kessel has one testicle and is also shaping into a very good hockey player. He and Savard make me pretty weary of a shootout scenario. (Not that we've had one at all this year, but you never know...)

I like Glen Metropolit, and I heard someone else say the same thing over the weekend. I feel vindicated by this.

Since we last played them they have a new goaltender, Raask or something. I don't feel like looking it up, but I remember his name kind of sounds like he is a Tuscan Raider from Star Wars. Whatever, we barely score goals anymore as it is, why not throw a mythical creature out there?

Jon and I were talking about this earlier, but this is the first year we've really hated playing our division rivals eight times per year, and it's because of the Bruins. I dislike them, they play us tough, and when it comes down to it, I'd rather play a few more teams out West because they are more fun to play.

I know that problem is fixed come next year, but there are only so many times you can play a team before you know everything there is to know about them. I'm not claiming to be an expert, but I will say I doubt I am surpised by anything that happens tonight.

7-6 and Looking Towards Cleveland

by Ryan

If you wanted a summary of the game, it's best you get it in pictures:

Beck=Balls

Beast

The Return of Beast Mode

1-2 Punch

Trentgasm!


"I coulda done that..."

We are the first team listed as "In the Hunt" with the MSM. Next Sunday is officially the new biggest game of the year.

Whether you think we have a shot or not, this thing is far from over.