Paetsch - Buffalo Hockey Beat

Amerks’ Nathan Paetsch wants to help Humboldt: ‘It’s home’

ROCHESTER – Humboldt, the small Saskatchewan town reeling from a crash that killed 15 members of its beloved junior hockey team, is home for Americans defenseman Nathan Paetsch.

While Paetsch lived about 20 minutes away in tiny LeRoy, he was born in Humboldt, developed into an NHL talent playing minor hockey there and still has family in and around the town of about 5,900.... Read the full article

Former Sabre Nathan Paetsch at home with Amerks

ROCHESTER – The second phase of former Buffalo Sabres defenseman Nathan Paetsch’s career has been rewarding, even a bit unlikely.

Five years ago, Paetsch transitioned into a veteran role helping develop Detroit Red Wings prospects. He won two Calder Cups with the Grand Rapids Griffins, playing a vital role well into his 30s, an advanced age for the AHL.

Now, Paetsch has come full circle. Fourteen years after starting his career in Rochester as a ... Read the full article

Sabres look to Brendan Guhle for spark

BUFFALO – Earlier this season, as injuries decimated the blue line and the Sabres kept rookie Brendan Guhle in Rochester, the plan for their top defense prospect became evident.

The Sabres wanted Guhle to pay his dues, quietly develop in the AHL and eventually earn a recall.

“We were going through a tough stretch there, where you think about bringing guys up, we had some capable defensemen back there,” coach Phil Housley said Monday after ... Read the full article

Sabres GM Jason Botterill expects prospects to battle for roster spots

BUFFALO – Right now, just one day before the Sabres open training camp, veterans and established youngsters seemingly take up every roster spot for the upcoming season.

Counting returning regulars and offseason additions, the Sabres have 13 forwards and seven defensemen, more than a full lineup.

So what about the prospects? Could some force themselves onto the roster?... Read the full article

Coach believes Sabres prospect Eric Locke has Brett Hull-like shot

BUFFALO – Sabres prospect Eric Locke possesses a “rocket” shot so quick and lethal it reminds his coach of a former NHL teammate.

Which one? The greatest goal scorer Greg Gilbert ever played with.

“Brett Hull, to be honest with you,” Gilbert, Locke’s junior coach with the Saginaw Spirit, said by phone earlier this week. “I mean, Hully was special, there’s no question about it. But Eric’s got that potential. He’s got that quick release. ... Read the full article