Murray vs LaFontaine: "Congratulations on a job...Done."

Pat LaFontaine, the hero from the ages, brought in to rejuvenate the team and the fan base, quits a day after the Miller trade. Apparently, he was unhappy with the trade and wanted to sign Miller to a long term deal. While I respect the loyalty and appreciate that LaFontaine wanted to keep a great talent in the city, the numbers just didn’t add up. The Sabres are literally at a low point and are the definition of a rebuilding team. That being said, I am excited about the future that this team. Coach Ted Nolan has the team playing at a competitive level, even without NHL stars. The young players they have are showing more jam than they have under other regimes. With all of their prospects and draft picks they are in a great position to create a young powerhouse similar to the team that they just sent their stud goalie to (St. Louis Blues). The fact that LaFontaine left in such a fashion shows me that he and Murray were not meant to be. I’m sure that most Sabre fans were quick to jump on the bandwagon of their hero, but after listening to Murray, I’m inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt. I like the trade and feel that if they develop the talent and draft well, they will be a powerhouse because of it. Paying Miller top dollars just did not make sense. They can find a great goalie for the league minimum, while they rebuild. They will be just as competitive as they were with Miller, and have money to spend in other places, like locking up Tyler Myers to a long term deal.

Bottom line, I may be completely wrong with my analysis but after hearing Murray speak about the team and knowing what I know, I think that the Sabres are finally on the right track. It’s too bad that LaFontaine will not be around to enjoy it.

lalalalaalalalalalalalaLaFontaine.