I'm starting this with the desire to learn about Stafford & understand what happened to him. I'm not intending to get into any Staff-bashing, I'm just really curious as to what you can tell me.

I live out of state so I never get to see the Sabres play. I also have to memory of a flea so I don't recall how Staff used to play. Was the way that Mancari played last night anything like the way Stafford used to play? When he was playing so well & earned that contract, what was his style? Who were his linemates? I know we all used to love the guy...so what happened? What changed that may have altered his game or his perception of his game?

I'd rather not believe that he's a lazy bum unless that's the last resort.

When Stafford is on his game, he keeps his feet moving. He can rush the puck pretty damn well. He's a good stick handler and he's got some speed.

He's a big body that can throw hits along the wall, and he doesn't have a bad wrist shot.

But he never brings any of these things to the table. This season in particular, he appears to be lost out there, not knowing where to be or what routes to take.

I don't think he's putting in a solid effort, either.

_________________
Wheelhouse

Yeah, PSP just summed him up pretty well.
I used to REALLY like Staff, but now that I think about it...I think the last time I was really impressed with his play was when Drury and Briere were still here, I believe he was called up from rochester that year? (Edit: Wait, no I think he came up in 05-06 and played his best hockey) He came through in the clutch and looked like he had massive potential to get even better. He hasnt.

Stafford came up in 06-07 when Max was hurt. He had success in part due to the open ice under the "new era" officiating, and that NHL teams weren't familiar with him. He has very good stick handling skills up close and in tight which make him dangerous in front of the net. I think he's given in to wanting to play fancy instead of using his size to be a grinder. That could be a result of being paired with Roy and Vanek. He needs to be better at the forecheck and working for position in front when he DOESN'T have the puck, instead of only moving his feet when he DOES have the puck (like PSP said). Stafford is a laid back guy, and maybe it's just perception but he seems to be too laid back on the ice lately as well.

Mancari is actually bigger and stronger than Stafford, and if he uses his body more he'll be better than Stafford right away. He can't stick handle as well as Stafford, but I'd rather he work the board hard and get in position to use his awesome shot - no fanciness necessary. There's too much fancy pants on the team, so Mancari is a better option (if he works hard).

If Stafford starts to do the dirty work with passion, and gets in front of the net more to create havoc or score ugly goals, and Mancari brings a work ethic to both his game and attitude, then both players have the talent to be consistent 25 goal players.

So, assuming Stafford stays hurt for a few games, and Mancari stays up here and keeps contributing like this...does stafford replace him when he comes back?

If Mancari keeps it going, there's no way Stafford will be replacing him.

It's more likely that one of our other forwards will begin to slack and Stafford will move in to play for whoever that may be.

_________________
Wheelhouse

I would replace Ellis with Stafford when he comes back.

_________________
Proud LGBTQQ Individual

I also agree this guy has potential to be real good but he doesn't seem to want to or put forth that solid effort game in and game out. It's very disturbing and probably makes Lindy lose more hair each night.

i don't think mancari can skate nearly as well as stafford. but that's not a difference that can't be overcome.

"We're gonna go with Rob(Johnson) on Sunday..." -Wade Philips.

I'd much rather have Mancari playing right now.

Stafford would rather be home playing guitar. I had such high hopes for him as a top-6 skilled, solid, right wing....
If Mancari keeps up his play that puts Stafford on the scratch list or 3rd/4th line RW. I wouldn't mind seeing him at a LW spot either to see if that could increase his scoring. He has one more year.... Next year is easily make or break. Especially with the crop in Portland just about ready to harvest.

Me too. I haven't really had a chance to see him much, but god am I hoping he keeps passing to Vanek like he did in that Dallas game.

_________________
Lord Stanley's Cup is what its all about.
Mr. Pegula, your destiny awaits you sir.

Poor Flutie, I was pissed as a fan, I wonder how Doug felt. I always pictured him crying in a bowl of his flakes after the Tenessee game.

_________________
Lord Stanley's Cup is what its all about.
Mr. Pegula, your destiny awaits you sir.

That was so beautiful. Got the puck with his size, slipped it out to Vanek for the goal. If he keeps doing that, he'll be a great player.

mancari can be the perfect third liner, with offensive upside. imagine him using his size in corners and along the boards and killing penalties. now imagine that third liner potting 20-25 goals a season. the sabres line-up becomes alot more formidable.

_________________

Staff is "Vanek Light" right now. Stafford could be so dominate if he played 110% each night. He has got moves, size and finishing ability. I just hope he doesn't go down Kotalik street and settle for lackluster play.

_________________
The Board Drunk.

Drew Stafford sucks, Mark Mancari doesn't.

_________________

mancari has been very underwhelming through out his career to this point, where stafford has produced. it must opposite day in camp stupid!

_________________

Did you base that conclusion from 2 games?

_________________
"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Hockey Night in Buffalo