McCabe to MSG

In recent seasons it has become more and more difficult to question Glen Sather's smarts when it comes to trades but today's move does open debate. Sather pulled the trigger on the long rumoured addition of veteran defenseman Bryan McCabe from Florida, sending Tim Kennedy and a third round pick back the other way.

Losing Kennedy is tough because he is a versatile, tough little bugger who was battling well for the Wolf Pack Whale. Then again, the kid must have slept with Tortorella's daughter or something to have been banished there in the first place and he wasn't likely to ever see the lights of Broadway. Anytime you deal away a draft pick you lose a potential player (duh) but the Rangers' have had little success in the third round over the last 20 years. Dominic Moore is the best of the bunch to come out of the third during that span, seeing as Eric Cairns and Jason Labarbera found their "success" elsewhere. The jury still out on Evgeny Brendl Grachev, Tomas Kundratek and Ryan Bourque.

So the risk isn't high at all, but what kind of reward could we get?

After failing with Berard, Poti, Rachunek, Rozsival and Redden, Sather brings in another puck mover to man the point on the power play. Nice company, huh?

The last time McCabe ever won anything was the gold medal in the 1997 World Championships and the 35 year old was only part of one (failed) Cup run - with Toronto in 2002. The former Islander has played 24 career games in the Garden, collecting one goal and six assists while going +7 but since the lockout he has played nine games, had three points and went -6. He hasn't played in the NHL postseason since 2004.

McCabe had been the captain of the Panthers, so adding someone who is used to being the big voice could upset the chemistry and confidence of the young leadership already in the Ranger room. He has suffered injuries three of the last four seasons and has scored on his own goaltender multiple times over the course of his career. McCabe is prone to stupid penalties, having taken almost the full variety of minors this season - three interference calls, two hooks, two slashes, two cross checks, two trips, one hold and one unsportsmanlike. And a partridge in a pear tree ...

But, at the end of the day, McCabe is a warm body on the blueline that Tortorella should trust (mistakenly or not). He will get decent minutes while whittling away the end of an oversized contract that will not get renewed. His salary should put the Richards rumours to rest, as it will be all-but-impossible to add the concussed Star. Michael Del Zotto will finally end up where he belongs (off Broadway) and McCabe should finally give us someone to hate again in our sweater. Joy.

Interesting, dubious facts: McCabe was traded to Chicago by Vancouver with the Canucks' 2000 1st round draft choice for Chicago's 1999 1st round pick. That pick was later traded to Tampa and then summarily sent to the Rangers, and the Rangers selected none other than Pavel Brendl. McCabe ended his junior career in Brandon, playing alongside Wade Redden. And the overtime goal he scored on his own net against the Sabres was credited to our old friend Alice Kotalík.

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Sather Signs A Sabre

It is not on the official Ranger website yet but all of the NHL writers on Twitter have announced that the Rangers have signed Tim Kennedy to what is expected to be a one-year, one-way, $550,000 deal.

Now that I got my initial outrage out, it looks like an actual solid signing. That is, when you consider where the franchise is and what its goals are. All of the Ranger actions run contrary to what they have said in public and show one thing: they are not going to give any of the kids a shot this season. The roster that has been methodically built this summer ensures that the Blueshirts will be competitive for the eighth spot this season - par for the course. However, they will give them a chance either in 2011 or 2012, quite likely 2012. Once he rids himself of Wade Redden, Glen Sather will have a team that can survive any possible labour stoppage when the CBA comes up. It will be young, it will be skilled and it will be pretty cheap. It will look good in the renovated Garden and justify the massive price increases that will come along with it.

But that is then and this is now. Now we have yet another capable third or fourth line player with something to prove. Kennedy skates hard, is defensively responsible and should be good for a dozen or so goals. He went through three seasons of college, one of the AHL and one in the NHL. He took Buffalo to arbitration, was justifiably awarded a $1 mill and the Sabres walked away. The Blueshirts are getting him for a little more than half that. Not bad.

The aforementioned outrage of mine stems from what the impact of the deal is. It all but assures Dale Weise will be back in Hartford and it puts even more pressure on Sean Avery. I think Weise worked hard enough last year that he should be rewarded with a shot and the added pressure will hurt Avery. Sean walks a fine line as is, now that he has to earn his job night after night, it will either knock him back to the ineffective form of last season or over the line to the craziness that led to his banishment. An in-form Sean Avery, as we have seen, is far more valuable to the franchise than a soldier like Kennedy.

A lot of the Sabre fans I know really liked Kennedy and it wouldn't surprise me in the least if he builds a following here in New York. We love our hard-hat guys. We just don't enjoy the mediocrity that has become acceptable fare for the Garden brass.

 Sather Signs A Sabre: A New Chapter in Buffalo

The Buffalo Sabres, a franchise that has witnessed its fair share of ups and downs, are embarking on a new era with the signing of their new head coach, Glen Sather. As the Sabres faithful eagerly anticipate the upcoming NHL season, it's time to explore the significance of Sather's appointment, his storied career, and what it means for the future of hockey in Buffalo.

In this article, we'll delve into Glen Sather's coaching journey, the Buffalo Sabres' aspirations, and answer some frequently asked questions about this exciting development. Whether you're a die-hard Sabres fan or simply intrigued by the ever-evolving landscape of the NHL, this article has got you covered.

Glen Sather: A Coaching Legend

Glen Sather is a name that resonates deeply in the world of hockey. Born on September 2, 1943, in High River, Alberta, Canada, he made a name for himself not only as a player but as a highly successful coach and executive.

Playing Career: Sather enjoyed a respectable playing career as a forward in the NHL and WHA, primarily with the Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers. His time as a player laid the foundation for his future success as a coach and executive.

Coaching Stint with the Oilers: Sather's most prominent coaching tenure was with the Edmonton Oilers. He became the head coach in 1976 and led the team to four Stanley Cup championships in the 1980s, establishing the Oilers as one of the league's dynasties.

Executive Leadership: In addition to his coaching success, Sather also served as the Oilers' General Manager and President, overseeing the team's transition from the WHA to the NHL and continuing to build competitive rosters.

NHL Coaching Career: Sather's coaching career extended beyond the Oilers, as he also coached the New York Rangers and briefly served as the team's General Manager. His impact on the Rangers included leading them to the Stanley Cup in 1994, ending a 54-year championship drought.

The Sabres' Aspirations with Sather

The appointment of Glen Sather as the head coach of the Buffalo Sabres is a significant move for the franchise, signaling their commitment to a brighter future. Here are some key aspirations and expectations associated with this hiring:

Cultivating a Winning Culture: Sather's track record as a coach and executive brings a winning mentality to the Sabres. His experience in building championship teams is invaluable.

Player Development: Sather's coaching expertise will be instrumental in the development of young talents on the Sabres' roster. Developing a strong core of young players is vital for long-term success.

Leadership and Accountability: Sather's leadership style emphasizes accountability and discipline, qualities that can positively influence player performance and team cohesion.

Fan Engagement: The Sabres' fan base has been waiting for a resurgence. Sather's appointment injects hope and excitement into the fan community, potentially leading to increased attendance and support.

Playoff Aspirations: Ultimately, the Sabres aim to return to the playoffs and compete for the Stanley Cup. Sather's championship pedigree aligns with these aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What led to the decision to hire Glen Sather as the head coach of the Sabres?

The decision to hire Glen Sather was influenced by his extensive coaching and managerial experience, which includes multiple Stanley Cup championships. The Sabres' leadership saw in him the qualities needed to lead the team to success.

2. How does Sather's coaching style differ from previous Sabres coaches?

Sather's coaching style is known for its emphasis on discipline, accountability, and a winning mentality. He brings a wealth of experience in building championship teams, which can set a new tone for the Sabres.

3. What impact can Sather have on the development of young Sabres players?

Sather's coaching expertise can significantly impact the development of young players. His mentorship can help them reach their full potential and contribute to the team's success.

4. Are there specific areas of improvement that Sather will focus on with the Sabres?

Sather is likely to focus on various aspects, including defensive structure, special teams, and overall team cohesion. His goal will be to build a well-rounded team capable of competing at a high level.

5. What are the expectations for the Sabres in the upcoming NHL season under Sather's leadership?

The expectations for the Sabres include improved performance, player development, and a competitive push for a playoff spot. While an immediate championship may be ambitious, Sather's presence sets the stage for future success.

The appointment of Glen Sather as the head coach of the Buffalo Sabres marks the beginning of a new chapter in the franchise's history. With a legendary figure known for his coaching success and championship pedigree, the Sabres are poised to rebuild, develop a winning culture, and engage their passionate fan base.

As the new NHL season approaches, all eyes will be on Buffalo as they embark on this exciting journey under Sather's leadership. Whether the Sabres immediately return to championship contention or take gradual steps towards their goals, one thing is clear: Sather's presence injects optimism and excitement into a franchise eager to make its mark once more in the world of professional hockey. So, get ready, Sabres fans, for a new era filled with hope and anticipation.