yave1964 Posted April 16, 2014 Share Posted April 16, 2014 PRESEASON EXPECTATIONS None. The hope by any reasonable fan was that the Miller and Vanek situations would be worked out satisfactorily and that the club would not be an embarrassment. The hope was that the fans would be patient and that the kids would develop in what was known to be a down year ahead. FINAL RECORD 21-51-10 52 points last in conference last in the NHL HIGH POINT OF SEASON October 27th the day they dealt Vanek to the Islanders for Mouslon, a first in either this draft or the next and a second in next years draft. Then at the deadline they parlayed Moulson into two additional second round picks. LOW POINT OF THE SEASONThey lost 10 of their first 11, but to me the low point was the day they dealt iconic fan favorite Ryan Miller to the Blues. They did acquire 2 first round picks for Miller however so that softens the blow. Perhaps the low point was the preseason debacle with John Scott and Phil Kessel going at it. WHAT WENT RIGHTThe deals of Vanek, Halak, Miller, and Moulson for picks, picks and more picks. Cody Hodgson (20-24-44) and Tyler Ennis (21-22-43) were good if not great, Girgensons did not embarrass himself in his first extended play in the NHL. WHAT WENT WRONG. They did not acquire any ready now talent in any of the deals (possibly Neuvirth?) to fill the empty cupboards. They are set to struggle even more next year as a result. Kids such as Grigorenko, Ristolainen did nothing to show why they were drafted so high. Ville Leino went the entire season without a goal. Young players who it was hoped would take a step up such as Foligno, McBain and Tyler Myers actually took steps back. They dressed 8 goalies. They dressed Kaleta. MVP Pat Lafontaine for hiring Tim Murray and ted Nolan and then having the good sense to step aside and let the team he put in place assess and develop talent. On the ice Miller was absolutely amazing before being dealt. UFASTallinderKonopka OFFSEASON QUESTIONS Will the Isles give up the fifth pick in this years draft as partial payment for Vanek or gamble that they will have a lower pick next year? Can the kids develop or is this all their is? Is the combo of Enroth and Nuevirth good enough to resemble an NHL goalie duo? Can they entice NHLers to come to Buffalo knowing it is a several year process to build the club back to respectability? What do you do with Tyler Myers? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.