The Sabres and Hurricanes meet again. Only tonight, it’s at Essar Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.
Coming off a championship at the World Cup of Hockey with Team Canada, Ryan O’Reilly will make his Sabres 2016-17 debut. The 25-year-old who led the Sabres last year in assists (39) and points (60) while finishing third in goals (21) is excited to get back with his team and knows he’ll be counted on heavily this year.
“I’ve got a little more responsibility and I’m excited with that. There are lessons you take. To get a taste of what it’s like to win a championship is a great feeling and something we want to have soon in this room.” – Ryan O’Reilly
He’s also focused on playing a more consistent game.
“Consistency is the big thing. I had solid numbers but there were areas where I slumped or didn’t perform the way I want to,” said O’Reilly. “I have to be more vocal, grow that way and be a better leader.”
Daniel Catenacci, Justin Bailey and Jean Dupuy all played for Sault Ste. Marie back in their junior hockey days, so tonight’s game will have extra meaning if any of them are in the lineup. All three practiced on lines this morning.
Your projected starting lineup:
Evander Kane – Ryan O’Reilly – Alexander Nylander
Justin Bailey – Derek Grant – Brian Gionta
Matt Moulson – Cal O’Reilly – Hudson Fasching
Jean Dupuy – Daniel Catenacci – Cole Schneider
Jake McCabe – Casey Nelson
Erik Burgdoerfer – Brendan Guhle,
Brady Austin – Justin Falk
Linus Ullmark
Robin Lehner
Tonight’s game has radio coverage only.