Sabretip
Registered User
Talk about pouring salt in the wound - Bill Hoppe has some valid points that can't be easy to ponder with Sabres and Leafs heading in opposite directions:
http://www.buffalohockeybeat.com/up...andoned-philosophies-as-blueprint-to-success/
Think about it, Buffalo Sabres fans, a couple of years ago, your team switched identities with the hated, mega-market Maple Leafs.
As the small-market Sabres morphed into a free-spending, win-at-all-costs club under new owner Terry Pegula, the Leafs began embracing development and patience, the Sabres’ old and successful philosophies.
The Leafs’ major volte-face has quickly paid off. They finished fifth this season, their highest spot since 2003-04.
Meanwhile, the Sabres, having just missed the playoffs a second consecutive season, are rebuilding and attempting to implement their old practices. General manager Darcy Regier has warned his team’s rabid fan base to brace for some “suffering.”
Incredibly, now the Sabres want to replicate the Leafs’ plan.
Six or seven years ago, as the heavyweight Sabres contended for the Stanley Cup while pummeling the hapless Leafs, who would’ve believed that?
The Leafs built this exciting group like the Sabres constructed their rollicking post-lockout clubs. Their roster is filled with homegrown young talent, some minor free agents and a few stars they’ve acquired through trades.
They’ve stopped indulging during free agency – something the Sabres have also vowed to do – and jettisoned some ill-advised additions from summers past.
http://www.buffalohockeybeat.com/up...andoned-philosophies-as-blueprint-to-success/