The Buffalo Sabres have seen some phenomenal performances from a few key players. But others have not fared as hot in the early going.
The Buffalo Sabres have seen a few players breakout in the season’s early stages. Likewise, there have been a few in their ranks whose production has stagnated or fell short of expectations. One player listed below will have several chances while another has seen pedestrian play early on.
And still, another may be on his last thread in the Queen City. So who are these players and is it worth panicking over their lack of productivity early.
1 – Jack Quinn – Healthy Scratch on Tuesday
Had someone asked whether Quinn or J.J. Peterka would be the better forward early, most would answer with Quinn. But head coach Don Granato listed the rookie forward as a healthy scratch last night, giving Quinn an opportunity to watch and learn from the press box.
Though he has been ineffective over the season’s first two games, there is no reason to panic over Quinn. He has just four games of NHL experience and trounced competition he was supposed to look good against in the preseason.
Verdict: No need to panic. Quinn will be fine
2 – Jeff Skinner – One point in three games
Jeff Skinner cannot seem to find the net early in 2022, though he did log an assist against the Edmonton Oilers on a Tage Thompson goal. Had I written this article yesterday, Tage may be in this slot, but given his otherwise lack of productivity, Skinner gets the dishonor.
Though he was a ghost in the first two games, I noticed Skinner quite a bit against Edmonton. He was physical, and played well defensively, snagging a block and two takeaways. The offensive productivity isn’t there, but Skinner played well in other areas last night.
Verdict: Not panicking. Skinner will at least produce defensively and supplement offensively
3 – Casey Mittelstadt – Should the Buffalo Sabres move on?
Let’s end with one of the more obvious player. Casey Mittelstadt has not lived to expectations and after a pedestrian preseason and tough start to the regular season, you have to wonder when the Buffalo Sabres will finally admit their mistake. While Mittelstadt had a few good outings in the faceoff department, it dissipated during a rough game against the Oilers.
His FOW% sunk from 58% to 51% from Saturday to Tuesday, and he has so far committed eight giveaways. It makes you wonder whether it’s a matter of when the team will make a move here.
Verdict: In massive panic mode if Mittelstadt remains on the top six