Outlook and Optimism: Predicting the Sabres 2011-12.

Hello everyone. We're happy to say that Ultimate Sabres is back with the NHL on the verge of starting its 95th season. The Bruins defeated the Canucks in 7 games last June to capture their first Stanley Cup since the days of Bobby Orr. Now, a new sun is rising on the NHL. So many NHL GM's and owners made monumental strides this summer to improve their teams as best as possible. In my opinion,(biased or unbiased) the Sabres were at the very top of that list, adding Christian Ehrhoff, fresh off a run to the Stanley cup finals, and Robyn Regher. Both defense-men are extremely good additions to the Sabres defensive core. Both very tough, and excellent skaters. Ehrhoff can move the puck very well and has a wicked slap shot. Robyn Regher is a great physical player who can also shut down opposing forwards. Up front, the Sabres added the man who crushed their dreams of a 2nd round playoff berth last spring. Ville Leino is a very swift forward who also makes net crashing look easy. Returning to the blue line for the Sabres are: Tyler Myers, who can be summed up in 2 words, "6:8". Mike Weber: a rough and rugged d-man who had a very solid rookie season last year with 14 points and +/- of +13. Andrej Sekera: a talented puck mover who is overshadowed by his tendency to be a bit clumsy. If partnered right, he can overcome that. Jordan Leopold: The Sabres Defense scoring leader last season with 35 points(13 goals). His tragic flaw? +/- -11.  And Marc-Andre Gragnani: a late season call up last season that turned out working out beautifully. Gragnani had 3 points in 9 games and was a +/- +2. He was even better in the Playoffs, leading the team with 7 points and +/- 0. Gragnani (if he plays the same as the post-season) has a shot at NHL rookie of the year. Shoane Morrisonn was recently sent to the Amerks. Ryan Miller returns to goal, with Jhonas Enroth backing him up. Enroth was sensation last year. The Sabres definitely have something to prove: Can Terry Pegula's dedication to the team and this new and improved Defense-Tender staff translate into a Stanley Cup? My Prediction: Yes.