The Buffalo Sabres are looking to climb back into the mix for the playoffs. One way they could do that is utilize the return of Jordan Greenway.
The left winger has been out of the lineup since December and made an immediate impact on Saturday Night against the New York Rangers. The Sabres defeated the Rangers in a dominant 8-2 performance.
He contributed an assist and had six hits on the evening, displaying a physicality that had been missing since he had been out. His six hits, placed with 60 on the year. Despite not playing since December, he ranks fifth on the team in the category demonstrating his aggressiveness.
While Greenway was in the lineup during the month of November, Buffalo went 4-2. They lost the first three games he was out in December. If Buffalo hopes to move back up the playoff standings, Greenway will be key to them making a move.
Greenway has only three goals on the year, but the Sabres have not lost any of one of three games he scored a goal. All three goals have also come at even strength demonstrating his ability to play through.
Greenway has 11 games where he has three or more hits.
During the 8-2 victory over the Rangers, he also added two blocks on just over 14 minutes of ice time. There have been many rumors swirling as to whether the Sabres may deal Greenway at the trade deadline, but if they wish to make any sort of push, they will need him in the lineup.
They also would be hard pressed to find a more physical left winger moving forward in the offseason. He was a major force on the ice in both the first period goals in the victory over New York.
The six-foot-six forward spoke with the reporters on the Sabres mindset and effort on the ice. “We said, ‘Let’s go out here, transition quick, get the puck going, don’t let them set up. Just keep them on their heels all game, especially in the first 10 minutes. Try to run them out of the building." Greenway said of the Rangers game.
His contract, has him signed through the rest of this season. If you are the Sabres, try to see how much more of an impact he can make? If he continues to progress and be a part of the Sabres push, than they may want to look at resigning him for next season.