Midseason Analysis: Buffalo Sabres

Record: 29-11-6. 64 points
Conference Rank: 3rd
Division Rank: 1st
Top Scorer: Tim Connolly (11 goals, 28 assists, 39 points)
Top Goalie: Ryan Miller (26 wins, 2.01 GAA)
Midseason Grade: A-

The big story all season long in Buffalo has been the MVP-like play of Ryan Miller. The starting goaltender for the American Olympic team has been absolutely unbeatable all season, and is probably the leading candidate for the Hart Trophy and the Vezina this year. His play has helped the Sabres to a solid lead in the Northeast Division, and the Sabres’ general style of play is perfectly suited to win close games.

Offensively, Buffalo is pretty well balanced. Seven of their starting forwards have at least 20 points already, and Tim Connolly is enjoying an injury-free season for the first time in years. Connolly has long been underrated, due to the fact that he has missed significant time in each of the last few seasons. The Sabres won’t blow anyone out of the building, but with Miller in net, they don’t have to.

Tyler Myers is a leading rookie of the year candidate, with 26 points and a very solid +9 rating. The towering blueliner is a huge factor on the powerplay, as well as a dependable player in his own end. Alongside the youngster is a set of veterans that are all proven defenders. Combining a solid veteran defensive corps with MVP netminding is a recipe for success, and the Sabres have executed it to perfection so far this season.