Brendan Lemieux already has 29 goals this season. ©2015, Dan Hickling, Olean Times Herald

Sabres prospect Brendan Lemieux piling up goals, getting ready for NHL

BUFFALO – Brendan Lemieux understands junior hockey is a special, once-in-a-lifetime experience. The three or four years, the Sabres prospect has been told, are “definitely the best time of your life.”

“I know why they say that,” Lemieux, the 31st pick by the Sabres in June, said by phone Tuesday. “I’m having a blast in junior. We’re on a high right now. We’re on a winning streak.”

The gritty, high-scoring winger already has 29 ... Read the full article

Brendan Lemieux has strong hockey genes. ©2014, Dan Hickling, Olean Times Herald

Prospect Brendan Lemieux impressed Sabres in difficult draft interview

PHILADELPHIA – Brendan Lemieux thought he flunked his recent interview with the Buffalo Sabres badly. The team pushed the 18-year-old, grilling him about his relationship with his Barrie Colts teammates and other difficult subjects.

“We made it uncomfortable for him a little bit,” Buffalo Sabres general manager Tim Murray said Saturday after selecting Lemieux 31st overall at the NHL Entry Draft.

But the way Lemieux, the son of legendary NHL agitator and playoff hero ... Read the full article

Drew Stafford thinks a 48-game schedule would be a grind. ©2013, Dan Hickling, Olean Times Herald

1994-95 Sabres recall fun and intense 48-game season

BUFFALO – Buckle up, Sabres fans. You could be watching a lot of intense, high-stakes hockey very soon.

If the NHL and the Players’ Association reach a new collective bargaining agreement by next Friday’s deadline, the league will most likely begin a shortened 48-game schedule against conference opponents Jan. 19.

Sure, losing 34 contests from the normal 82-game slate may be disappointing. But the increased importance of each game could make for some wildly entertaining ... Read the full article