Baker Fairburn Hockey Show

Kris Baker and Matthew Fairburn

Kris Baker (@SabresProspects) and The Athletic's Matthew Fairburn (@MatthewFairburn) discuss all things Buffalo Sabres and catch up on the latest happenings around the National Hockey League (NHL).
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Episodes

Did Power and Samuelsson just become best friends?
Dec 8 2023
Did Power and Samuelsson just become best friends?
The Dahlin-less Sabres defeat Boston 3-1 and sandwich a four-game losing streak between road victories against the two best teams in the Eastern Conference.Owen Power and Mattias Samuelsson successfully munch major minutes in a spot where the team desperately needed them to perform. Does this become a new pair that forces Don Granato to find a new partner for Dahlin (day to day) once he returns?The Tage effect is real as it seems his return has elevated the team's overall compete level. If this challenging stretch is an audition for the team's next captaincy, Thompson is checking some boxes to be included in that leadership group once Kyle Okposo hangs up the skates.Devon Levi returns from his two-game stint in the AHL and comes up big, backstopping the team to victory against one of the league's top clubs. With the Sabres rumored to have interest in acquiring a veteran netminder, what's next for Levi in an attempt to balance winning versus developing?Is it time to change the Victor Olofsson narrative? There are some compelling stats that may suggest that to be the case. There is an interesting dynamic in place with Isak Rosen's arrival that could be helping both of the Swedes.Commenter Kevin says the win in Boston means little if the Sabres do not follow up in their next game (versus Montreal). After all, the Sabres have struggled to win two in a row. If that's the case, what are the next moves to be considered that can get the team on track?Also, Kris shamelessly solicits the audience for Christmas cookies. His DMs are open.As always, thank you for supporting the Baker Fairburn Hockey Show.