BUFFALO – Scratching defenseman Josh Gorges, Sabres coach Phil Housley said, is “very difficult.” The veteran is a heart-and-soul player.
Gorges, 33, isn’t a slick puck-mover. He has carved out a strong 13-year career as a stay-at-home defender by showcasing grit and tenacity.
Housley, of course, wants his defense to drive possession and aggressively move up the ice. So Gorges will sit out tonight’s opener against the Montreal Canadiens, his old team. Gorges was never a healthy scratch in his first three seasons with the Sabres.
“I know Josh isn’t playing tonight, but he’s going to be ready for his opportunity,” Housley said inside KeyBank Center. “I respect the veterans that are not playing tonight, obviously. …
“But moving forward, you never know what could happen. Changes may come Saturday, changes may come Monday, but he understands where he’s at. He’s a terrific person. He has great work ethic, so you never know when that decision will come.”
He shouldn’t see the ice unless there’s any injury…even then I’d put him behind Tennyson, Fedun, Falk, Nelson and Guhle.