Why is it that optimism is looked at as "rah rah?"

It's not "rah rah," and I'm not a cheerleader. There is plenty of evidence this season to suggest that this team is the real deal. And I'm happy about that.

Also, to point out a weakness somewhere is not to "discredit" the team. Simply showing where the team could improve is just that, nothing more. Hoping that they can improve there, as with more consistent scoring from the top forwards (or a better PP), is hoping to see a team that can not only compete with anybody, but have a real good chance at beating them too.

First, let me be real specific. I see the true Cup contenders right now as Chicago, San Jose, New Jersey, and maybe Washington. After that certainly Washington, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, Calgary, and Vancouver are the 2nd tier teams in no particular order. Beating these teams once or twice in the regular season is one thing, but to beat Chicago, SJ, or NJ and overcome their size, skill, and discipline (as the case may be) in a seven game series is a tall order. Sure Buffalo could do it, but I wouldn't expect them to just yet. I wouldn't have them as a favorite in a series against those three teams, and Washington would probably be a coin toss.

So to assess the team that way, right now as maybe the 5th or 6th best team out there is hardly a "discredit". That's pretty good, but until they can get a consistent effort and consistent production from their best forwards I won't put them as a favorite over those top 3-4 teams. They may get there before the season ends, and I won't be surprised if everything starts to click. I just won't count on it just yet. I'll wait and see, and hope that they go into the playoffs playing well.

versus intermission report:

"miller is my first half MVP, without him, the sabres are on the outside looking in, and probably by a large margin."

Hard to argue with that.

Point is, if the rest of the team comes around - via trade, or self realization; this season could be very interesting......

versus intermission report:

"miller is my first half MVP, without him, the sabres are on the outside looking in, and probably by a large margin."

i think the overall versus hockey product has gotten better and fast. if only they could get gary thorne back to call games. i think their analysis on hockey are usually pretty good.

tldnr.

No need for violence, just tell her she's got a game misconduct and show her the door.

As I said in the GDT, the call on Rivet was horseshit. The Bruins player was holding onto Rivet's stick like it was the last fucking raft on the Titanic.

We all knew Miller was this good, just was wondering when he would have the defense needed to let him shine.

not THIS good. this is a one-in-a-million season.

not THIS good. this is a one-in-a-million season.

not THIS good. this is a one-in-a-million season.

No need for violence, just tell her she's got a game misconduct and show her the door.

As I said in the GDT, the call on Rivet was horseshit. The Bruins player was holding onto Rivet's stick like it was the last fucking raft on the Titanic.

I agree.

This team is winning games with Patty in goal this year.

This team would still be a playoff team, even without Miller.

Miller instantly makes them a cup contender.

If the power play continues to improve (it has looked very good the past few games) and Ruff keeps fine tuning the system, the Sabres are going to be a miserable team to play against.

As it is now, it's very difficult for anyone to beat the Buffalo Sabres. Every post game interview with another coach or player, they all talk about the same things: they're swarmed by pressure and have no time with the puck, and Miller is a pain in the ass to score on when you do get an opportunity.