SabreCast: The Unofficial Buffalo Sabres Fan Podcast

SabreCast 5.11 – Looking Back, Looking Ahead

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 19:03:31 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 2-1 Main topic: Looking Back, Looking Ahead The Sabres season is officially over. We take a look at some of the individual highlights and disappointments and look ahead to the next season. We also review our season predictions from the 1st episode. Listen to [...]

SabreCast 5.10 – No Playoffs

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 21:13:32 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 2-1 Listener feedback Main topic: No Playoffs It came as no real surprise, but the Sabres were officially eliminated from playoff contention with a loss the NY Rangers this week. We discuss why the Sabres failed this season and what we hope to see [...]

SabreCast 5.09 – Trade Deadline

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 19:10:29 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 2-1 Listener feedback Main topic: Trade Deadline The Sabres had a pretty good week, going 2-1, but the big news of the week was the Trade Deadline. The Sabres traded Leopold, Regehr, and Pominville for picks and prospects. In our main topic, we discuss [...]

SabreCast 2.08 – Rolston in Review

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 21:11:39 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 3-0 Listener feedback Main topic: Rolston in Review The Sabres had a good week and have jumped up the standings to 10th place. Under Rolston, the team is 7-5-3. This week, we discuss Rolston’s performance so far and whether he should be the coach [...]

SabreCast 5.07 – What Should Pegula Do?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:08:45 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 0-2-1 Listener feedback Main topic: What Should Pegula Do? The Sabres had another tough week and it has fans frustrated with the team once again. In our main discussion, we make a list of suggestions for Mr. Pegula for improving the team. Listen to [...]

SabreCast 5.06 – Midseason Review

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 01:06:25 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 3-0-1 Scores: 2-1 L @ TBL, 4-3 SOW @ FLA, 4-3 SOW vs NJD, 3-2 SOL @ NYR Listener feedback Main topic: Midseason Review The Sabres had a great week, going 3-0-1. They are finally starting to play as a cohesive unit, but previous [...]

SabreCast 5.05 – New Coach

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 24 Feb 2013 19:06:34 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 0-3 Scores: 2-1 L vs WIN, 3-1 L @ TOR, 4-0 L vs NYI Listener feedback Main topic: New Coach Lindy Ruff has been fired as the head coach of the Buffalo Sabres after 16 years on the job. We discuss how we think [...]

SabreCast 5.04 – Lindy Ruff vs The World

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 17 Feb 2013 22:08:10 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 1-3 Scores: 3-1 L vs BOS, 2-0 L @ OTT, 4-2 W vs BOS, 4-3 L vs PIT Listener feedback Main topic: Ruff and Regier We’ve been getting a TON of feedback about Lindy Ruff and Darcy Regier since the start of the season. [...]

SabreCast 5.03 – Disastrous Defense

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 19:27:47 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 2-2 Scores: 4-3 L vs FLA, 4-3 L @ OTT, 5-4 W vs MTL, 3-2 W @ NYI Listener feedback Main topic: Defense The Sabres defense has been a disaster so far this season. We break down the situation in detail in our main [...]

SabreCast 5.02 – Initial Impressions

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:58:32 +0000

In this week’s episode, we discuss the following: Game recaps Record: 2-3 Scores: 5-2 W vs PHI, 2-1 W @ TOR, 6-3 L @ CAR, 3-1 L vs CAR, 3-2 L @ WAS Main topic: Initial Impressions We discuss the Sabres play after the first 5 games of the season. Listen to the full episode

SabreCast 5.01 – The Sabres Are Back!

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 13 Jan 2013 19:11:40 +0000

The NHL and players have agreed on a new CBA which means that HOCKEY IS BACK! Because of the late start, teams will play a shortened 48 game schedule against only in-conference opponents. There will be no preseason games and only a short week-long training camp. In this episode of SabreCast, we discuss the schedule, [...]

SabreCast 4.29 – Free Agency

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 23:49:36 +0000

In this episode we cover the Draft and Free Agency.

SabreCast 4.28 – It’s All Over

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 01:06:20 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games and read listener feedback. Then, for our main topic, we’ll look back at the season and ahead to the next season. We’ll also review the predictions we made at the beginning of the regular season.

SabreCast 4.27 – Down and Out?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 19:24:00 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll talk about what the Sabres need to do to make the playoffs.

SabreCast 4.26 – All Coming Together

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 20:08:39 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll break down why the Sabres are playing so well.

SabreCast 4.25 – 10 Games Left

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 19:45:10 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll take another look at the playoff picture.

SabreCast 4.24 – Down The Stretch

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 21:39:37 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll look ahead at the remaining games.

SabreCast 4.23 – Trade Deadline Analysis

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 21:40:36 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll analyze the Sabres’s moves at the recent Trade Deadline.

SabreCast 4.22 – The Trade Deadline Approaches

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 20:10:52 +0000

This is episode #22 for the 2011-12 NHL Season. This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll discuss the upcoming Trade Deadline.

SabreCast 4.21 – 0.7%

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 22:43:37 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll discuss what we would like to see out the rest of the season.

SabreCast 4.20 – Things Are Looking Up

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 22:36:23 +0000

This is episode #20 for the 2011-12 NHL Season. This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll discuss why the Sabres are doing well right now and why we think they might make the playoffs.

SabreCast 4.19 – Can They Make the Push?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 21:06:50 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll discuss whether the Sabres are really making a push for the playoffs.

SabreCast 4.18 – A Ruinous Roadtrip

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 20:57:03 +0000

This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll discuss how the Sabres should move forward now that the playoffs are basically off the table.

SabreCast 4.17 – Buyers or Sellers?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 22:23:53 +0000

SabreCast 4.16 – Halfway Review

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 23:52:05 +0000

This is episode #16 for the 2011-12 NHL Season. This week, we’ll recap the latest games, read listener feedback, and review the standings and upcoming schedule as usual. Then, for our main topic, we’ll analyze the Sabres’ play through the first half of the season and look ahead to the second half.

SabreCast 4.15 – The Slump Continues

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 02:10:09 +0000

The Sabres had kind of a crappy week(ish), losing to the Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, and New Jersey Devils on the road and getting their only win against the Washington Capitals at home. The Sabres are finally starting to get a little healthier with Kaleta, Boyes, and Hecht all returning to the lineup during that span of games.

SabreCast 4.14 – Disappointment

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 22:42:23 +0000

The Sabres had ANOTHER mediocre week, losing to the Ottawa Senators in OT, beating the Toronto Maple Leafs in the final game of the home stand, and then suffering an embarrassing loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins on the road. And yes, the injury bug continues...

SabreCast 4.13 – Sabres Report Card

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 21:30:06 +0000

The Sabres had a mediocre week, losing to the Philadephia Flyers (in OT) and New York Rangers at home, but beating the Florida Panthers (in OT). Unfortunately, the team was still pretty banged up, ending the week with 7 players scratched due to injury.

SabreCast 4.12 – Mediocrity

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 22:30:15 +0000

In this episode, we analyze the Sabres’ recent lackluster performances and their overall middle-of-the-road status in the standings.

SabreCast 4.11 – The Injury Bug

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:08:31 +0000

The Sabres had a very interesting week, playing a tough, physical game against Boston and losing in the shootout, then getting blown out by Columbus, and finally crushing Washington the following night. On top of all that, the Sabres also suffered a number of injuries leading to several call-ups.

SabreCast 4.10 – 20 Games In

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 22:18:09 +0000

The Sabres had an all right week beating Montreal and Carolina, but losing to New Jersey and Phoenix. We're now 2o games into the season so in this episode, we rate each player's play up to this point.

SabreCast 4.09 – Defense (Or Lack Thereof)

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 01:00:55 +0000

Overall, the Sabres were pretty successful this week, beating Winnipeg and Ottawa, but losing an embarrassing game to Boston. To add injury to insult, Miller suffered a concussion from Lucic's hit. Though we discuss the game and the hit at length, our main discussion is about the defense.

SabreCast 4.08 – Goalie Contraversy

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 22:45:28 +0000

This was a pretty interesting week. The Sabres got off to a bad start against Philly seeing Ryan Miller get pulled and Jhonas Enroth getting the next two starts. Overall, the Sabres went 2-1, losing to the Flyers, but beating the Flames and Senators with Enroth in net.

SabreCast 4.07 – 10 Games In

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 19:46:44 +0000

Despite playing pretty well each game, the Sabres had a bit of a tough week going just 1-2 against Tampa Bay, Columbus, and Florida. The top line was stellar as usual and the Boyes-Ellis-McCormick unit was a surprise hit, but Sabres were only able to pull off one win at home.

SabreCast 4.06 – Early Chemistry

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 21:00:54 +0000

The Sabres have had a very nice start to the season, despite playing just one game at First Niagara Center. The top line has continued to have success, with Vanek up to 10 pts in 7 games.

Take Your Negativity And Shove It

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 15:10:39 +0000

I’m fighting back against that reflex, that everything is going to go wrong and while it is difficult, something that has been beaten into me for two decades, I’m going to appreciate what my eyes are seeing on a nightly basis. I’m also not going to repeat my mistakes from the 2006-2007 season where after winning ten in a row, I was irritated after we lost our eleventh game. It was silly, I couldn’t win and really, isn’t the whole point of being a fan to enjoy it? Really, I’m so used to focusing on the problems, the weaknesses of a team that it’s difficult for me to write about a great team without sounding like a 12 year old girl gushing about Justin Beiber. But here are some thoughts about the Sabres 5-1 start to the season:

SabreCast 4.05 – First Impressions

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 00:56:34 +0000

The Sabres have wrapped up a successful European trip with wins over Anaheim and Los Angeles and very promising play from Vanek, Adam, and Pominville.

The Table’s Set: 2011-2012 Sabres

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 16:22:09 +0000

We have three scoring lines I love and a checking line I love. The player I scream at the most can’t suit up because of concussion symptoms (despite my hostility towards Hecht, I wish him no long-term effects from his head injury and hope he returns quickly) and suddenly I’d put our backup goalie against any backup goalie in the league. I’m sure there will be plenty to complain about as the season progresses, there always is, but it just seems there will be less than in recent years. Will they blow a few two goal leads in the third period? Certainly, as that remains my bug-a-boo about the season, especially with the fifth and sixth game against Philadelphia still fresh on our minds. But right now I can’t find anything to be negative about. I can’t wait to take a half day tomorrow and head to the bar with friends to watch them debut in Helsinki. I can’t wait to head to Pucktoberfest at First Niagara Center to drink German beer and root them on against the Kings in Berlin Saturday (“I once sexually assaulted a horse in Berlin” and other Euro Trip quotes that haven’t been used since 2005 are likely to be used after a few beers). I can’t wait for the blistering cold walks into the F’n Center in January or the overtime wins, complete with a full bar of twenty-somethings excitedly cheering and high fiving one another. I look forward to walking to the next bar in my Ehrhoff jersey, dissecting what had transpired hours earlier. I look forward to meeting some of the fellow bloggers on the “Sabres Game” Twitter list who kept me company during those games in vacant Vermont bars as I sat alone in my Mogilny jersey. I look forward to teaching my girlfriend, a transplant from Elmira, the nuances of the game and the excitement which she has only seen from the outside looking in. I love that Connolly is gone, that Teppo is a coach and that I only have to drive to Rochester to see Kassian, Foligno and Mcnabb.

SabreCast 4.04 – Season Predictions

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 22:33:06 +0000

The regular season is almost upon us and we’re really excited. In this episode, we look ahead at the upcoming season and conduct our yearly predictions segment.

SabreCast 4.03 – Preseason

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:59:54 +0000

The preseason is in full swing and we’re ready to get back to our regular recording schedule. In this episode, we discuss the following: Preseason game notes New players including Leino. Regehr, and Ehrhoff Prospects including Adam, Foligno, and Kassian Roster moves Listen to the full episode!

Say Goodbye to the Slug!

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 18:11:46 +0000

Today, it’s official. SabreCast.com is now slug-free and it’s about time! We hope you like it! Likewise, September 19 is Slug Appreciation Day. If you take your old slug merchandise down to the Sabres Store at First Niagara Center, you’ll get a 41% discount off a replacement item. So if you bring a hoodie with [...]

SabreCast 4.02 – Sabres On The Move

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 23:03:11 +0000

It’s been ANOTHER busy week for the Buffalo Sabres and, in this episode, we discuss the latest news, including: Christian Ehrhoff signing Ville Leino signing McCormick, Gerbe, and Weber re-signings Get the Full Episode (MP3 26.7mb) – Running Time 58:17 Don’t forget that we love to hear your feedback so please leave a comment, rate [...]

SabreCast 4.01 – Off Season Check-in #1

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 19:42:29 +0000

It’s been a busy week for the Buffalo Sabres and, in this episode, we discuss the latest news, including: 2011-12 NHL Schedule NHL Draft Pegula’s acquisition of the Rochester Amerks Sabres’ trade for Robyn Regehr Get the Full Episode (MP3 21.2mb) – Running Time 45:59 Don’t forget that we love to hear your feedback so [...]

SabreCast 3.28 – Season in Review

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 08 May 2011 19:35:37 +0000

The playoffs are over with the Sabres having lost to Philly in 7 games in the 1st round. We're very happy with the regular season turnaround, but can't help but be disappointed with the playoff loss. Nonetheless, the Sabres seemed to really give it their all and we're looking forward to what next season brings.

SabreCast 3.27 – Sabres vs Flyers: Tied After 2

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 20:50:21 +0000

The playoffs have begun and the Sabres have split the first two games on the road against the Philadelphia Flyers, winning the first game 1-0 and losing the second 5-4. In this episode, we review the games in detail and look ahead at the rest of the series.

SabreCast 3.26 – Playoff Preview: Sabres vs Flyers

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 00:51:19 +0000

The Sabres closed out the last week of the season going 3-0 versus Tampa Bay, Philadelphia, and Columbus. With the win over Philadelphia, they clinched the 7th place seed in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Ironically, the game was also a preview of the upcoming playoff matchup.

Thoughts on an Amazing Regular Season

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 16:23:01 +0000

As the 2010-2011 campaign heads into it's final two games, I find it impossible to call this season anything other than the greatest regular season in recent memory, at least it has been in my nearly two-decades long run of following this team. When I say "greatest," I think you all know what I mean. This has nothing to do with wins and losses, although those certainly play a role, it has to do with the ride, with the storylines, with characters revealing themselves as something we thought they would never be, with heroic characters entering the stage at exactly the right time, the time when we needed them most. Consider the following: -The team started the season 3-9-2 and found itself not only at the bottom of the standings, but at the bottom of ESPN.com's power rankings. I remember the line after the teams position was "Oh-No-Buff-a-lo."

SabreCast 3.25 – 3 Games Left

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 01:41:59 +0000

Game discussion: Toronto, NY Rangers, Washington, Carolina; listener feedback; main discussion: 3 Games Left

SabreCast 3.24 – Down the Stretch

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 21:22:19 +0000

The Sabres had a great week, going 3-0 against Montreal, Florida, and New Jersey. Miller posted two shutouts and Gerbe, Stafford, and Pominville were exceptional on offense. In this episode we talk about those games, read some listener feedback, and review the playoff outlook and remaining schedule.

SabreCast 3.23 – Do We Have What It Takes?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 01:19:07 +0000

The Sabres had another okay week, going 1-1-1 against Carolina, Atlanta, and Nashville. In this episode we talk about those games, read some listener feedback, and discuss whether the Sabres have what it takes to secure their position in the standings.

SabreCast 3.22 – The Pegula Factor

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 01:29:44 +0000

The Sabres had a decent week, claiming the 7th place spot in the Eastern Conference while going 2-2 against Pittsburgh, Boston, Philly, and Ottawa.

SabreCast 3.21 – 8th Place!

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 01:34:07 +0000

The Sabres put together one of their best weeks of the season going 3-0-1 against the New York Rangers, Carolina, Philadelphia, and Minnesota (all of which were on the road) to propel themselves into the 8th place spot in the East.

SabreCast 3.20 – The Pegula Era

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 21:07:27 +0000

After a disappointing start to their six game home stand, the Sabres closed out rather well going 2-0-1 against Atlanta, Ottawa, and Detroit. This week also marked the official start of the Terry Pegula era as owner of the Buffalo Sabres, which forms the topic of our main discussion.

SabreCast 3.19 – Approaching Deadline

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 22:13:59 +0000

The trade deadline is now little more than a week away. In our main discussion, we take a look at the Sabres and review their options in the coming week.

SabreCast 3.18 – Drew Stafford

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 02:22:12 +0000

The Sabres had another successful week going 2-0-1 against Tampa Bay, Florida, and the New York Islanders. Drew Stafford had a big week as well, scoring two hat tricks and thus earning a spot as the subject of our main discussion.

SabreCast 3.17 – Welcome Pegula

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 21:40:21 +0000

The Sabres had only two games this week and went 1-1 against Pittsburgh and Toronto. However, the biggest news of the week was that the Sabres officially announced the sale of the team to Terry Pegula. In our main discussion, we look at back at the Golisano era and look ahead the new ownership.

SabreCast 3.16 – Climbing the Ladder

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 22:21:37 +0000

It appears that the Sabres may have turned the corner, but have they done it in time to make the playoffs? In this episode, we discuss the team's recent success and what they need to do in order surge to the top eight.

SabreCast 3.15 – Just Getting By

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 21:41:27 +0000

This week, the Sabres went 1-2 against Philadelphia, Carolina, and the New York Islanders. It wasn't a great week and frustration with the team is starting to build. This week's episode is a bit all over the place with no planned main topic.

SabreCast 3.14 – Second Half Preview

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 21:57:29 +0000

We're officially halfway through the season, so this week we take the opportunity to look ahead and talk about what it will take for the Sabres to make the playoffs.

SabreCast 3.13 – 2010 in Review

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 23:18:40 +0000

This is our first podcast in two weeks so we cover a lot including the last five games, Roy's injury and what it means to the team, and the World Juniors.

SabreCast 3.12 – Time For A Change

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 01:05:18 +0000

The Sabres went 1-2 this week, beating Boston at home, but losing to Florida and Tampa Bay on the road. This week's games has left a sour aftertaste and we think it's time to see some change on the team.

SabreCast 3.11 – A Look at the Defense

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 00:03:33 +0000

The Sabres went 1-1-1 this week in games against Boston, San Jose, and Pittsburgh. Overall, the Sabres played pretty well and I believe that they are improving little by little. This week we take an in depth look at the defense.

SabreCast 3.10 – New Ownership

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:06:29 +0000

The Sabres went 2-0 this week, posting shutouts in games against Columbus and Ottawa. We also got some very interesting news this week indicating the Sabres might be sold, which is the topic for our main discussion.

Not a Moment Too Soon

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 21:02:33 +0000

Which leads us to the current stale team at HSBC Arena. Now Pegula hasn't met with the other NHL owners (presumably next week), and an announcement isn't expected til near New Year's at the earliest. There will be plenty of time to speculate what's going to happen personnel-wise once the keys to the owner's box are handed over. But one thing is for certain: if the change in attitude makes winning paramount, that will likely clash directly with Darcy Regier. The inability to trade prospects, the habit of holding onto players who we all know will never become what the organization hoped they will, the consistent overvaluing of the players on the ice in trade negotiations, the inability to understand the term "addition by subtraction," of being loyal to the wrong guys and disloyal to the wrong guys needs to stop. Claiming Tim Connolly is a top 20 center in the NHL, that needs to stop. Crying at the end of the season about wanting to bring a cup to Buffalo then making Rob Niedermayer your big addition, that cannot stand. Drew Stafford should have made his KHL debut long ago, along with Patrick Lalime. Tim Connolly...okay let me espouse on Connolly:

SabreCast 3.09 – November Review

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 02:47:49 +0000

The Sabres wrapped up November, going just 1-2 against Pittsburgh, Toronto, and Montreal. We also saw a slew of roster moves this week with Mike Weber, Colin Stuart, and Luke Adam all making it into the lineup. In this episode we look back at November and discuss how the Sabres fared.

SabreCast 3.08 – Goal Scoring

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:16:40 +0000

The Sabres went 2-2 this week versus Vancouver, Washington, Los Angeles, and Tampa Bay. The competition was difficult this week so 2-2 doesn't look all that bad, but right now the Sabres need to be better. One of their biggest issues right now is goal scoring, which we discuss in detail in this episode.

Climbing Our Way Out of Hell

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 21:43:00 +0000

It's been a trying first quarter of the season to be a Sabres fan. I purchased NHL Gamecenter at the beginning of the season so I could catch every game from my current location in Northern New England and felt like I had been taken by the NHL like Peter was by that volcano insurance salesman in an episode of "Family Guy." I was left to brainstorm of bandwagons that I could join on to make the purchase somewhat less fiscally irresponsible (I've ALWAYS loved the Flames, I swear!) before grudgingly acknowledging that Bettman had won yet another round. The team had played over a month without winning a game at home, had put up a 3-9-2 record, found itself in dead last in the league and the talk had grown louder than a whisper that Lindy's time in Buffalo was up (more on that later). The problem wasn't just that they were losing- every team hits rough patches, although the beginning of the year certainly focuses more attention upon that- it was how they were losing. That always seems to be the complaint about this collection, especially in a market as hockey educated as this one. While Tim Connolly's dogging it could go undiscovered for months or years in a place like Atlanta, Tampa or Sunshine (the alligator infested swamp the Panthers stuck their arena), it was only a few weeks before someone hung up the most fitting banner seen at HSBC in years. Their performance was an affront to all those that paid money to see them play, to those who tune in every game and whose days are better or worse based on their performance. We were all beginning to settle in for the longest winter imaginable, one in which the Sabres were irrelevant.

SabreCast 3.07 – Getting Better, Sort Of

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:33:53 +0000

In this episode we break down what the Sabres are doing well and what they still need to do better.

SabreCast 3.06 – This Team Has Issues

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 23:59:31 +0000

The Sabres managed to do a little better this week coming away with 2 points in 3 games. The Sabres lost to Boston and Montreal at home, but scraped together a shootout win in Toronto. In this episode, we discuss the Sabres' biggest issues.

SabreCast 3.05 – October Review

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 22:20:09 +0000

Well, the Sabres blew it this week. Just when we were starting to gain a little confidence in the slow starting team, they only managed 1 point against Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Dallas. In this week's podcast, we review team and individual stats from the first month of play.

SabreCast 3.04 – Who is This Team?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 22:08:31 +0000

The Sabres pulled off a much better week going 2-1 against Atlanta, Ottawa, and New Jersey. Unfortunately, the Sabres still did not win on the road and only managed to beat two of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference. In this episode, we try to figure out if the Sabres are really getting better or if they just beat some bad team.

SabreCast 3.03 – Is it Time to Panic!?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 19:53:57 +0000

YIKES! The Sabres had one horrible week going 0-3-1 and completely failing to win during a four game home stand. In this episode we try to figure out what the heck is going on and what it will mean going forward.

Get Off The Ledge…Or Shall I Join You?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 19:02:29 +0000

It's a combination of all of last year's problems, with the added caveat that the defense has been atrocious. Still, we are merely six games into the season so there's no need for a sweeping indictment against players or the system, while at the same time problems need to be mentioned.

SabreCast 3.02 – Initial Impressions (Updated Link)

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 00:01:13 +0000

SabreCast 3.02 - Initial Impressions (with updated link)

A New Hope

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 17:01:10 +0000

No, the Sabres have a chance to be very good this season, and they will be very good. Nathan Gerbe will be wonderful to watch, as will Ennis. Thomas Vanek is still on the roster and will surely recover from a disappointing 09-10 season. Tyler Myers will avoid a sophomore slump and will become an anchor on our power play, a position he has already adjusted to deftly in the preseason. Mike Grier will bring it every night, so get your 2010-2011 edition of the "Doin' Work Son!" shirt, and maybe get one for Niedermayer, who will be sure to be doing work all year barring injury. Ryan Miller will make show-stopping, game saving stops. There will be overtime winners, 3 goal comebacks, shootout victories. There will be a four game winning streak, just as there will certainly be a four game losing streak. They'll have a win in the 8-1 range, they'll put out a performance like the 5-0 loss to the Islanders last year. But I feel they will be very good, and should be favored, perhaps expected to win the division again, given the talent on the roster- barring the unthinkable injury scenario that I won't even mention here but is certainly in the back of every Sabres fan's mind. It'll be a long season with many storylines ahead that cannot be predicted now. There will be great Mondays after the Sabres win both games of their weekend, there's probably going to be some bad ones where they drop both (made especially terrible with a Bills embarrassment on Sundays). For now, in early October as the long season starts, we should just soak in the enjoyment of hockey being back in our lives, and that chance of something special taking place every night we watch, whether that something "special" is Gerbe scoring between his legs or Lalime letting a puck past him at five miles per hour.

SabreCast 3.01 – Preseason Synopsis

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 00:45:51 +0000

The Sabres are just wrapping up their preseason games and have shaved down their roster to a slim 26 players. They need to be down to 23 before the start of the regular season. In this episode of SabreCast (which we are calling the first episode of season three or 3.01), we breakdown the final [...]

SabreCast 2.32 – Off Season Check-in #2

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 18:41:24 +0000

Darcy Regier has been fairly busy over the last few weeks so we decided to get back behind the mic and talk about the recent moves and what it will mean for the team next season.

SabreCast 2.31 – Off Season Check-in

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:02:34 +0000

We talk NHL Awards, Draft, Free Agency, and what it all means for next season.

SabreCast 2.30 – It’s All Over

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 02 May 2010 20:16:29 +0000

The season is officially over for the Sabres who lost in six games to Boston. In this episode of SabreCast we breakdown the series and speculate about the offseason.

SabreCast 2.29 – Put On Your Rally Cap!

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 25 Apr 2010 19:44:05 +0000

The Sabres are currently trailing 3-2 against Boston. Unfortunately, the Sabres lost both games in Boston, but won an uplifting home game on Friday. In this playoff edition of SabreCast, we cover all three games in detail. In this episode of SabreCast, we cover… This week’s games (Games 3-5 against Boston) Listener feedback Upcoming game(s) [...]

SabreCast 2.28 – All Tied Up

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:04:00 +0000

Playoff hockey is officially underway and the Sabres are matched up against the Boston Bruins. The Sabres won the first game 2-1, but fell 5-3 in game 2. In this playoff edition of SabreCast, we cover those two games in detail.

SabreCast 2.27 – Sabres vs Bruins

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 01:12:35 +0000

The regular season is officially over at the Sabres have finished 3rd in the Conference, which pits them against the Boston Bruins in Round 1 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs. In our main discussion, we break down the matchup in detail.

Playoff Beards and Playoff Chances

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 21:11:25 +0000

My all-time favorite beard may be Olympic swimmer Amanda Beard, who posed for Playboy a couple years back, but in a very close second would have to be the Playoff Beard. Not shaving while your team is in the playoffs connects one to the team itself. Like wearing a jersey or having a flag on your car, but much more bad-ass. I have only been able to do the Playoff Beard once, the shaky playoff run in 2007 after winning the President's Trophy. Over a month of not shaving becomes noticeable for people like me, and after being compounded with a couple things (the Flyers finishing dead last, the Penguins being eliminated), I felt like the coolest cat on the Penn State campus. For those of us who have wives, girlfriends, or simply a job in which one interacts with people or wears a suit, growing copious amounts of facial hair is indeed a sacrifice, one made to show our determination for Buffalo to win a Stanley Cup.

Playoff Flashback: 2006

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 01:09:20 +0000

Remember, this was the team that beat us 5-0, 6-1 and 10-4 early in the regular season, a team that ripped through the conference on its way to 113 points and the top seed in the playoffs. Sure, we had done well getting through a slow Philadelphia team built on brute force, but Ottawa was an unstoppable force, simply extending the series past five games would be something to build on.

SabreCast 2.26 – Can’t Wait ‘Til the Playoffs

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 00:20:28 +0000

After another week of games, the Sabres are still looking to clinch the Division and still have a shot of moving into 2nd place in the Conference. The Sabres still have four games left in the regular season, but Matt and I can't help but look ahead. In our main discussion, we break down the playoff picture in terms of leadership, injuries, and rookies.

SabreCast 2.25 – The Sabres Are in the Playoffs

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 19:55:40 +0000

The Sabres have clinched a playoff spot with their win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday. After a two season drought, the Sabres will again have a shot at the Stanley Cup and Matt and I couldn't be more excited!

SabreCast 2.24 – Back on Track

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 01:33:04 +0000

The Sabres are finally returning to form and look like the team we saw during the first half of the season. The Sabres went 3-1 this week and finished up a successful Southeast road trip. In this episode, we revisit the overall team and top players’ statistics. In this episode of SabreCast, we cover… This [...]

SabreCast 2.23 – Looking Forward

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 19:46:17 +0000

The Sabres may finally be breaking the slump, albeit rather slowly. The Sabres went 1-1-1 this week and are starting to shows signs of life again. In this episode, we look forward to the remaining schedule and beyond to the playoffs.

SabreCast 2.22 – Trade Deadline Analysis

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 04:03:30 +0000

We're finally back on the air (though not necessarily on our games) after a short hiatus during the Olympic break. Since our last podcast Ryan Miller has won an Olympic silver medal and the tournament MVP; the Trade Deadline has passed with the Sabres acquiring Raffi Torres and trading away Nathan Paetsch and Clark MacArthur; and the team has gone 2-2 and reclaimed the division lead from Ottawa. It was a busy few weeks and we cover it all on this episode!

The Weak, the Soft, the Shameful

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 02:47:42 +0000

Have you ever seen a team so uninspired in games of such importance? It's not like mailing one in against the Islanders when you're sitting in the 10-spot, this is a team that is on the cusp of winning the division and could even make a run at the 2-seed. From what we've seen since the midway point of the road trip the team is playing like it's tanking for the top draft pick. It's disgusting, a team of clowns with the complacency of a team of sloths. Does someone need to remind these guys they haven't won anything? Would it really make a difference?

SabreCast 2.21 – Darcy, Please Make a Trade

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 22:25:30 +0000

In this episode of SabreCast, we cover… This week’s games (Boston, Carolina, and San Jose) Listener feedback Main discussion: The upcoming Trade Deadline – what we hope Darcy will do. Standings and schedule Don’t forget that we love to hear your feedback so please leave a comment, rate out show on iTunes, or leave us [...]

SabreCast 2.20 – Don’t Panic

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 20:47:46 +0000

In this episode of SabreCast, we cover… This week’s games (Pittsburgh, Ottawa, Carolina, and Columbus) Listener feedback Hockey news (Jokinen and Kovalchuk on the move) Main discussion: Breaking down the breakdown and hope for the future. Standings and schedule Don’t forget that we love to hear your feedback so please leave a comment, rate out [...]

SabreCast 2.19 – Grading the Sabres

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 20:20:52 +0000

In this episode of SabreCast, we cover… This week’s games (Vacouver, New Jersey, and Boston) Listener feedback Hockey news (Toronto’s trades! Oh my!) Main discussion: Grading the Sabres Standings and schedule Don’t forget that we love to hear your feedback so please leave a comment, rate out show on iTunes, or leave us a voicemail [...]

Best Wins of the 00′s, Number Three

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 19:44:41 +0000

It was a frustrating time for Sabres Nation. The march to the Stanley Cup finals was not supposed to be this difficult for a team that had led the league in goals scored on their way to the President's Trophy. The team had dispensed of the New York Islanders in five workman-like games, and had taken the first two games of the next series, which were played in Buffalo. The Sabres were going to finish off a sweep- or at worst, another five game win- and head on to the conference finals, one step closer to the Stanley Cup the team had spent all year putting reservations on. Suddenly, however, someone pulled the power on the Sabres' high powered offense.

Road Trip Ruminations

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:02:31 +0000

Okay, so staying up until one or one-thirty in the morning to watch hockey with work the next morning is not as fun as I had anticipated. Granted, the games- or at least their conclusions- were at times so maddening that it was difficult to fall asleep, so maybe had the team played better it would have actually been enjoyable.

SabreCast 2.18 – Road Trip

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 22:27:14 +0000

In this episode of SabreCast, we discuss this week’s games from the Sabres, who went 1-2-1 against Phoenix, Anaheim, Los Angeles, and San Jose. We discuss the road trip in detail, but also cover listener feedback, the standings, and the upcoming schedule. Because we devote so much time to the road trip, our main discussion [...]

SabreCast 2.17 – What Makes This Team So Good?

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 20:51:06 +0000

In this episode of SabreCast, we discuss this week’s games from the Sabres, who went 1-0-1 against Atlanta and the New York Islanders. We also cover listener feedback, discuss why the Sabres are doing well, but are losing fan support in our main discussion, and go over the standings and upcoming schedule.

Devils and Kings and Canucks, oh my: eve of the roadtrip

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 04:11:20 +0000

Luckily, none of those four things are going to happen, and with the team sitting near the top of the Eastern Conference, winning nearly 3 of every 4 games, there is nothing wrong with expecting them to come out of the road trip with similar results. Ruff said earlier today that a 'successful' road trip would be nine or ten points, a number exceeding my preliminary hopes for seven or eight, simply going .500 for the next two weeks.

SabreCast 2.16 – Smokin Jochen Hecht

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 20:27:59 +0000

In this episode of SabreCast, we discuss this week's games from the Sabres, who went 2-0-1 against Tampa Bay, Toronto, and Colorado. We also cover listener feedback, discuss Jochen Hecht in our main discussion, and go over the standings and upcoming schedule.

Top Wins of the Decade: Number Four

feedback@sabrecast.com (Mike and Matt Spencer) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 03:47:28 +0000

The story is pretty well known by now. Following the game five loss in Raleigh, coach Lindy Ruff left his cell phone behind in the hotel room and would depart for Buffalo without it. Upon receiving a call from the hotel offering to mail it back to him, Ruff replied something along the lines of "don't worry, we'll be back on Thursday" (the presumptive day of game seven). By this time the buzz around Western New York was electric, the birth of the car flag craze, the storefronts and signs normally reserved for advertisements now bearing messages wishing the Sabres well on their improbable run to the Stanley Cup Finals. Sure, we trailed 3-2 and sure, Carolina had previously won all four of the Game 6's they had played while in that position, but aside from feeling that there was still some magic left in the tank, there was a prevailing notion that had evolved over the series that Carolina just wasn't that good.