So despite a decent record they are only 1-1-2 against division teams, and the win was in OT against Toronto.

Not hating, just saying they probably aren't the first place team that their record shows right now. Before the season most were calling them a non-[layoff team while I called them a six seed. I'm saying the same thing despite the fast start. That's not hating, just calling it like I see it.

Their record right now isn't the point, it's about the type of hockey they are playing now and what kind of record they'll have at the end of the season.

Last year Pittsburgh and Detroit played games in which they weren't dominate.. Stanley cup winning teams don't look like Stanley cup winning teams 82 games a season..

So last week they looked good, fighting hard for a couple tough wins. I didn't post here about it, but I really thought they would come back flat against Florida, and unfortunately they did. With three days off they just came back and looked like the same old team, trying to be too fancy in front of the home crowd and not battling hard enough. Then to come back against Boston and still not be able to beat a bruised up team that just played the night before...disappointing. Tonight will be the inevitable loss to Ottawa, especially since Lalime is likely to start and the team will be tired and flat whenever they play in front of him.

So despite a decent record they are only 1-1-2 against division teams, and the win was in OT against Toronto. They are playing a brand of hockey that is necessary for them to be a playoff team - defense first. It's no coincidence though that the goals for are down, because that brand of hockey does not translate into as many quality chances - not for these players anyway. They don't have the pure playmakers and goal scorers that can still produce under this style of hockey, so what we've seen so far is what we're going to get. There won't be many 4+ goal games for Buffalo, they are going to have to grind out 2-1 and 3-2 wins, and suffer losses on a regular basis if they don't score 3.

Just get used to it now. It was a nice start, but this team is a 2nd place, 6 seed that might win a round in the post season...not much else.

we really need Grier back from his injury to help keep the faith on our players.

"We lose a few and everyone thinks we suck and the end is coming."

I've made every effort to say this is not what I think...no?

The ONLY thing I'm saying is that despite a first place record, Buffalo is not a first place team. Struggling to score and failing to beat division teams, especially when you have the advantage in rest or injuries, is a sign that you are not a great team. They should be a good, competetive team this season, but not a great team or ultimately a Cup contender.

That said, I thought they'd be a six seed, and anything can happen in the playoffs, so it's not like I'm disappointed.