The Buffalo Sabres collectively improved in the month of March, but three Sabres ascended head and shoulders above the rest
The Buffalo Sabres are still struggling. But their struggles these days involve putting games away in regulation, having taken five straight opponents into overtime.
It’s easy to argue that the entire roster improved in March. The Sabres have gotten healthier and low-tier players have either stepped up their game or returned from injury. Will Butcher, in just his second game back from injury, found twine in the game against New York.
Meanwhile, Zemgus Girgensons and Vinnie Hinostroza returned from injury recently and have played well all month. With so many Sabres having improved in March, three players stand out more than the others.
It’s easy to call two of the three players on this list fringe. Both struggled with injury and underperformed in previous seasons. However, a late-season run may coax head coach Don Granato and general manager Kevyn Adams into keeping them around for at least another season.
Another player listed is a high-powered rookie who made a few cameo appearances last season. This year, they have become one of the team’s most physical puzzle pieces, but in recent games their contributions on offense have become more pronounced.
If this trio continues playing at a high level, it’s easy to predict they will return next season. Even if they will all log under 20 minutes of ice time on the middle to lower lines.
Sure, there is still an entire offseason and training camp. And it’s likely AHL prospects may supplant them. But going into the offseason and next season’s training camp, two of the three players, if they stick around Buffalo, already have a leg up on the competition.
Another listed player may find himself vying for a spot on the top line. Especially if his physical play continues.