Dennis Gilbert hasn’t found a home in his NHL career, as he has struggled to latch on to a team in his six-year career. Gilbert has played with Chicago, Colorado, and Calgary before finding his footing here in Buffalo. Gilbert has made the most of his recent opportunities and is a big reason the Sabres are on their current four-game win streak.
Gilbert is from Buffalo, New York and has the rare opportunity that many players don't have, which is to play for their hometown team. Gilbert was a big piece in the wins against New Jersey and Columbus, especially in the Columbus game where he threw off the gloves and got into a fight on the opening faceoff with Blue Jackets winger Mathieu Olivier. This came on the same day the Sabres had a team meeting about the response to the Tage Thompson hit the game prior. Thompson took an elbow from Devils forward Stefan Noesen late in the third period, and his teammates just watched as he lay on the ground and no one talked or got involved with Noesen. It became national news, as reporters and journalism outlets ripped the Sabres for not having their star players back. It took a veteran like Gilbert to get his hands dirty, and jump-start this Sabres team. Besides just fighting, Gilbert possesses two traits that have helped the Sabres defense in a multitude of ways since working his way into the lineup.
Physicality
This Sabres defense has lacked the physical game all year long. They get beat along boards, lose the battle for 50/50 pucks, and take too many penalties because they can’t throw a check or body in on most plays. Gilbert has done a great job with getting down low, and making plays difficult along the boards. He was able to force multiple takeaways against Columbus and New Jersey because of that. The more physical you are, the less likely it is that the other team will want to challenge you in those puck battles. Gilbert has sparked a different attitude with this defense, and is helping them turn things around.
Patience
Gilbert has done an excellent job of letting play develop in front of him, in both the offensive and defensive zones. Buffalo ranks tied for 10th in defensive zone giveaways, and that is because of their inexperience and high powered offense. The Sabres want to play fast, however playing fast does result in turnovers, and odd man rushes. Gilbert has done a great job of letting his offense set up, and takiing the puck out of the zone, therefore limiting turnovers. Same can be said on the offensive end, Gilbert isn’t rushing into plays and setting up his teammates for better chances. Including his beautiful assist the other night, in their win against Columbus. Gilbert faked his shot, waited, and found Alex Tuch for a goal.
With the trade deadline looming, no one knows for certain who will be staying or leaving the Sabres. Most trade rumors surround the Sabres offensive players such as Dylan Cozens, but that doesn’t mean the defense is off limits. If a few trades take place, Gilbert will be the next guy up and could be an everyday guy for this team. As a local product, I think Gilbert has a lot more to give for this team, as it just means more to him. This will also give Gilbert a chance to prove himself and fight for a contract next year. He may only be a reserve for now, but look out for Dennis Gilbert to prove himself in the second half of the season.