Ryan Miller talks Friday prior to Rob Ray’s induction into the Sabres Hall of Fame. ©2025

When goalie Ryan Miller joined Sabres as rookie, Rob Ray tested him

BUFFALO – The talented rookie arrived just as the graying enforcer was about to leave. For 16 games over parts of three months in 2002-03, the careers of two Sabres Hall of Famers – goalie Ryan Miller and tough guy Rob Ray – overlapped.

Miller was a 22-year-old prospect up from the Rochester Americans for his first taste of the NHL. Ray, meanwhile, was a 34-year-old tough guy on his last legs.

“He was an ... Read the full article

Jiri Kulich has been on a tear. ©2025, Micheline Veluvolu

On Rob Ray’s special night, Sabres get two goals from Jiri Kulich, beat Preds

BUFFALO – Early in Friday’s 4-3 come-from-behind win, it appeared the Sabres might ride the emotion of Rob Ray’s induction into the team’s hall of fame to a convincing victory.

As Ray gave a heartfelt pregame speech on the KeyBank Center ice, the Sabres, all sporting blue shirts of the legendary tough, watched from the bench.

Then they pounced on the Nashville Predators, jumping out to an early 2-0 lead with owners Terry and Kim ... Read the full article

Rob Ray usually provides color analysis from ice level. ©2025, Micheline Veluvolu

Sabres legend Rob Ray developed into much more than fighter

BUFFALO – Forget about all of those fights. In his prime, legendary Sabres tough guy Rob Ray often impacted games with more than his fists.

Ray, who was inducted into the Sabres Hall of Fame in an emotional ceremony prior to Friday’s 4-3 win over the Nashville Predators, played a fearless and heavy style as a winger. He could be relentless and wear opponents out.

“Robby was a really good skater,” said John Van Boxmeer, ... Read the full article

Rob Ray would take on any heavyweight. ©2025, Janet Schultz

Sabres Hall of Fame: Despite pleas from coach, Rob Ray fought Dave Brown, became NHL heavyweight

BUFFALO – John Muckler’s voice cut through the din of the crowd that night 32 years ago as Sabres tough guy Rob Ray squared off with hulking Philadelphia Flyers heavyweight Dave Brown.

Muckler, having coached Brown with the Edmonton Oilers, knew him well. He feared Ray could be in way over his head.

The 6-foot-5 Brown, after all, ranked among the NHL’s most feared and punishing fighters. Few dared to challenge him.

So from the ... Read the full article