if I’m a bookmaker I’d welcome that $8200 Buffalo bet with open arms. Bad owner, good coach without any success to speak of at the NHL level, a first year captain, a no. 1 overall pick who lacked much flair so far in preseason. A goaltender whose never held the no. 1 role on a team for more than a little while when he stepped in for Rinne when he got hurt in Nashville. Lots and lots of youth and inexperience. But more talent than they’ve had in years. It’s possible a young team catches fire and they open some eyes in a poor division, gun to my head, your asking them to improve 18 points from last year. Again, I’d welcome that bet as a bookmaker. Their owner has deep pockets but has yet to prove to anyone he’s a good owner who spends his money wisely. Hope I’m wrong. I have family in Buffalo and think Eichel is going to be a superstar in this league.
And love the addition of Skinner. Giving him the C to wear is good motivation for him to prove his depth as a player and leader in the locker room. I just don’t see it. They are going to need an aweful lot of things to go right for this bet to cash.