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The annual Apples & Ginos Fantasy Hockey Projections Series is back!Nate and Blake begin their journey through all 32 NHL teams with the Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins, Buffalo Sabres and Calgary Flames.They break down every fantasy-relevant player, projected line combinations, power-play deployment, coaching impact and offseason changes before revealing their three favourite fantasy targets from each team.Can Leo Carlsson take another major step? Where will JJ Peterka fit in Boston? Is Zach Benson ready to break out? And who will claim Calgary's PP1 quarterback role between Simon Nemec and Zayne Parekh?Players discussed include Leo Carlsson, Cutter Gauthier, Beckett Sennecke, David Pastrnak, JJ Peterka, Morgan Geekie, James Hagens, Tage Thompson, Rasmus Dahlin, Zach Benson, Josh Doan, Matt Coronato, Zayne Parekh and more.Let's get to BIZ!
Mike Aguello joins the program to discuss the Buffalo Sabres. Jesse and Victor ask about pros Tage Thompson, Josh Norris, Jason Zucker, Ryan McLeod, Zach Benson, Josh Doan, Jack Quinn, Noah Ostlund, Konsta Helenius, Jiri Kulich, Rasmus Dahlin, Matias Samuelsson, Owen Power, Ukka-Pekka Luukkonen, Alex Lyon, and Colten Ellis. In Cat's instincts, Cat Silverman of InGoal magazine joins to discuss prospect goalies Scott Ratzlaff, Topias Leinonen, and Samuel Meloche. In the dynasty dig, we break down Konsta Helenius, Noah Ostlund, and Brodie Ziemer with the help of reports from FHL scout Mike Meyer and polls from NHL Rank King Mason Black.Have a listen! Our show is part of the Dobber Podcast Network and sponsored by Fantrax.com. Email fantasyhockeylife@gmail.com and ask to join our free discord. Join our Patreon at Patreon.com/fantasyhockeylife for rankings, bonus podcasts, in-depth prospect reports with video, show notes and more. Check our Facebook and Instagram pages. Win a copy of the Dobber Draft Guide (listen to the episode for how). View our YouTube for more prospect videos at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQPYVXp3foOcvh7344fjKmA. Listen and subscribe wherever podcasts are posted - and give us 5 stars! We want to be your best place to talk about the game of dynasty fantasy hockey
The Buffalo Sabres finally ended the NHL's longest active playoff drought during the 2025-26 season, capturing the Atlantic Division title with 109 points and returning to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in 15 years. After defeating the Boston Bruins in the opening round, Buffalo pushed the Montreal Canadiens to a thrilling seven-game series before falling in overtime of Game 7. Neil Smith and Vic Morren examine one of the league's most remarkable turnarounds, from a struggling team in November to one of the NHL's hottest clubs, while discussing the impact of a midseason front office change, Lindy Ruff's leadership, and the bright future ahead for one of hockey's youngest rosters.IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00:00] The Sabres complete an incredible turnaround by winning the Atlantic Division with 109 points and ending a 15-year playoff drought. Neil and Vic revisit the modest expectations entering the season after Buffalo acquired Josh Doan and Michael Kesselring from Utah in exchange for JJ Peterka and signed veteran goaltender Alex Lyon, with few expecting a dramatic improvement.[00:01:00] Buffalo catches fire after a slow start, launching a 10-game winning streak that begins in Edmonton. The discussion centers on the dismissal of General Manager Kevin Adams, the hiring of Jarmo Kekäläinen, and whether the front office change helped fuel Buffalo's remarkable turnaround.[00:02:00] The Sabres finish 30 points better than the previous season, posting a dominant 33-6-2 run while climbing from the bottom of the standings to first place in the Atlantic Division. Neil compares Buffalo's surge to some of the NHL's most improbable in-season turnarounds.[00:03:00] Vic examines Buffalo's dramatic statistical improvements, including a 67-goal swing in goal differential, major improvements in home and road records, a penalty kill that climbs to fourth in the NHL, and significant gains in goals against and save percentage.[00:04:00] Neil explains why Buffalo's improvement wasn't simply the result of coaching, as Lindy Ruff remained behind the bench. Instead, the panel discusses how confidence, defensive commitment, and organizational stability transformed the Sabres into one of the league's best teams.[00:04:45] Buffalo's stars deliver career seasons. Tage Thompson reaches the 40-goal mark for the third time, Alex Tuch posts another outstanding year, and Rasmus Dahlin establishes himself among the NHL's elite defensemen with career highs while entering the Norris Trophy conversation.[00:05:30] The conversation shifts to Buffalo's impressive young core, including Josh Doan, Ryan McLeod, Jack Quinn, Owen Power, Bowen Byram, Mattias Samuelsson, Zach Benson, Konsta Helenius, and Noah Östlund, giving the Sabres one of the league's brightest futures.[00:07:00] Neil and Vic examine Jarmo Kekäläinen's first offseason as Buffalo's general manager. The Sabres have only four draft picks, limited cap space, and several important unrestricted and restricted free agents requiring decisions.[00:08:00] Alex Tuch headlines Buffalo's offseason priorities after another outstanding campaign. The panel also discusses pending decisions involving Beck Malenstyn, Tanner Pearson, Luke Schenn, Logan Stanley, Zach Benson, Peyton Krebs, and Michael Kesselring.[00:09:00] The episode concludes with a discussion about whether Tuch should accept a hometown discount to remain in Buffalo or maximize his value on the open market, while looking ahead to what could be another exciting season for one of the NHL's fastest-rising franchises.
They analyze the Buffalo Sabres' current roster depth, debating which players constitute the team's true core and who might be expendable in potential trades. The discussion includes hypothetical line pairings for opening night and the impact of young players like Josh Doan and Zach Benson on veteran contract decisions. 01:00 - Tuck's Sabres Departure 04:00 - Defining Sabres Core 07:01 - Doan's Roster Impact 10:36 - NHL Expansion Rumors 16:45 - Opening Night Lineups 26:13 - Zucker vs Kane
Derek Kramer and Bill Hoppe evaluate the Buffalo Sabres' offseason moves, including the trades of Alex Tuch and Bowen Byram. They discuss the potential for prospects like Zach Benson and Olen Zellweger to fill production gaps. The conversation also explores the impact of high-profile RFA offer sheets on the league's salary cap structure. 01:00 - Sabres Offseason Strategy 07:15 - Draft and Prospect Review 09:38 - Hellebuyck Trade Rumors 12:14 - Atlantic Division Arms Race 16:45 - NHL RFA Offer Sheets
The Bulldog explores the massive $18 million annual offer sheet Leo Carlsson received from the Philadelphia Flyers and what it means for the Anaheim Ducks. He evaluates the risks of matching such a high salary for a young player and compares it to how the Buffalo Sabres successfully secured Zach Benson before he reached free agency. 01:00 - Leo Carlsson Offer Sheet 06:20 - Comparing Carlsson And Benson 10:20 - Weighing The Draft Picks
Nick and Andrew are back to break down the Sabres busy start to the offseason. The guys react to the contract extensions of Zach Benson and Beck Malenstyn. An overview of moving on from Alex Tuch and Bo Byram, along with the acquisition of Olen Zellweger from the Ducks. Finally, we talk the Sabres keeping both of their first round picks and what is next for Buffalo. Goalie or Forward? Thank you for listening!
In this episode, Jonah and JP recap a busy few days for the Sabres. They revisit the Bowen Byram trade before discussing the Alex Tuch sign & trade, Olen Zellweger trade, the Daxon Rudolph and Ilia Morozov draft picks, Connor Hellebuyck & Vincent Trocheck trade rumors, and more! (0:00) Intro(0:32) Revisiting the Bowen Byram trade(21:35) Alex Tuch sign & trade(35:26) Zach Benson extension(45:56) Olen Zellweger trade(1:07:27) Daxon Rudolph(1:21:46) Ilia Morozov(1:28:22) Connor Hellebuyck rumors(1:43:05) Vincent Trocheck rumors(1:51:49) Matthew Knies(1:54:14) Calgary Flames?(1:55:23) Jason Robertson?(2:00:04) Krebs/Malenstyn(2:06:46) Kevyn Adams joining Boston Bruins' front office(2:08:48) Jarmo Kekäläinen gets GM of the Year vote(2:10:48) JJ Peterka traded to Boston(2:18:09) Outdoor game coming?(2:21:09) NHL Draft presentation thoughts(2:28:43) Final Thoughts
It's Draft Day!After months of discussion Donnie and Rick chat about NHL Draft day finally arriving and also the ongoing World Cup. Joining the show is Zach Benson (14:38), Thomas Drance (24:12) and Farhan Lalji (51:20).
Mike Schopp and the Bulldog analyze Zach Benson's seven-year contract extension and his potential to become an impactful player similar to Brad Marchand. They also debate whether the Sabres should trade the fourth overall pick for a player like Matthew Knies or use it to draft a top prospect.
Paul Hamilton joins Mike Schopp and the Bulldog to discuss the Buffalo Sabres' strategy for the fourth overall pick in the NHL Draft. They analyze potential trades for players like Matthew Knies and Jason Robertson while reacting to Zach Benson's recent contract extension.
Hour One In Full
Paul Hamilton joins to discuss the Sabres' strategy heading into the NHL Draft and the potential for moving their top pick. They analyze the recent trade involving Alex Tuch and evaluate the value of Zach Benson's new seven-year contract extension. The conversation also explores potential roster additions like Vincent Trocheck and the impact of recent front-office decisions. 01:01 - Sabres Draft Pick Strategy 06:07 - Alex Tuch Trade Analysis 17:20 - Zach Benson Extension Details 21:35 - Future Sabres Roster Moves
Full Hour 1 in The Sports Bar - Hockey week continues. The NHL Draft is this weekend in Buffalo. Sabres reporter Paul Hamilton joins the show to answer everything Buffalo Sabres: Alex Tuch, Bo Byram, What do the Sabres do with their picks?
Buffalo Sabres beat reporter Paul Hamilton (WGR-550) joins the show as the NHL Draft is tomorrow night in Buffalo. Paul explains the Byram & Tuch trades, who are the guys Buffalo can target to replace them? What options can the Sabres do with pick 4? Plus a tour for Bills New Highmark Stadium.
The Washington Capitals continue their aggressive offseason.Tyler Yaremchuk and Carter Hutton react to the Capitals acquiring Alex Tuch in a sign-and-trade with the Buffalo Sabres. Was the price worth paying? What does the move mean for Washington's Stanley Cup aspirations, and does it hint at the organization's plans beyond Alex Ovechkin?The guys also debate Zach Benson's new contract extension, whether Quinn Hughes could become the NHL's next $15 million defenseman, and the likelihood of the Ottawa Senators adding another impact forward before the season begins.The offseason preview series continues with the Montreal Canadiens. Is Kent Hughes ready to make another major move this summer, or is patience still the best approach as the Canadiens continue building around their young core?Later, Matt Larkin joins the show to break down his updated Top 50 NHL Free Agents rankings. Which players are poised to cash in? Who could become the biggest bargain of the summer? And with the trade market beginning to thin out, which remaining trade target is the most intriguing?Matt Larkin | Top 50 UFA's - https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/top-50-nhl-ufas-ranking-list-news-rumors-tuch-andersson-bobrovsky-ovechkin-carlson-jenner-trouba-marchment-kaneSteven Ellis | 2026 NHL Mock Draft - https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2026-nhl-mock-draft-draft-week-edition-mckenna-leafs-reid-sharks-malhotra-canucks
Now that the Buffalo Sabres own the 4th overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, will they use their draft capital to trade for goalie Connor Hellebuyck? Plus Gene breaks down the Bo Byram trade as well as some baseball talk.
The Atlantic Division landscape just shifted overnight. In this episode, we unpack the blockbuster Brady Tkachuk trade to Florida, separate fact from fiction on Zach Benson's rumored mega-extension, and map out how the Sabres can exploit a chaotic NHL market.
The Atlantic Division landscape just shifted overnight. In this episode, we unpack the blockbuster Brady Tkachuk trade to Florida, separate fact from fiction on Zach Benson's rumored mega-extension, and map out how the Sabres can exploit a chaotic NHL market.
The Atlantic Division landscape just shifted overnight. In this episode, we unpack the blockbuster Brady Tkachuk trade to Florida, separate fact from fiction on Zach Benson's rumored mega-extension, and map out how the Sabres can exploit a chaotic NHL market.
Joe Yerdon from Noted Hockey & Bleacher Report joins the show to answer all of the pressing NHL questions. Alex Tuch, Bo Byram, Connor Hellebuyck & much more. Plus we have BREAKING NFL News.
Full Show Broadcast. Guest Today: Joe Yerdon & Sal Capaccio. Happy ribbon cutting (day) ceremony at New Highmark Stadium. Brendan Sorsby's NFL Supplemental Draft nixed. Giannis Antetokounmpo was traded to the Miami Heat in blockbuster deal. NBA & NHL Drafts. Timmy's hot take & so much more.
In this episode, the guys react to the big NHL news over the weekend: Brady Tkachuk being traded to the Florida Panthers. They also touch base on some Sabres news before jumping into the mailbag portion of the episode.(0:00) Intro(0:32) Brady Tkachuk traded to Florida(19:45) Would Tage Thompson have asked for a trade?(31:49) Are the Panthers going to win the Atlantic in 2027?(42:20) Bowen Byram rumors continue(49:37) How should the Sabres continue to build their roster?(1:03:13) Zach Benson extension is close(1:05:56) Mailbag(1:56:21) Closing Thoughts
Paul Hamilton analyzes the blockbuster Brady Tkachuk trade and its impact on the Atlantic Division's competitive landscape. He discusses Zach Benson's potential contract extension and evaluates the Buffalo Sabres' defensive depth ahead of the NHL Draft. They also explore the history of offer sheets and recent rumors surrounding the Vegas Golden Knights. 01:00 - Tkachuk Trade Analysis 06:47 - Panthers Goalie Issues 09:21 - Benson Extension Talk 16:13 - Sabres Defensive Depth 18:35 - Offer Sheet Rumors
Jeremy and Joe evaluate the risk of an offer sheet for Zach Benson and the Sabres' cap flexibility. They discuss the importance of aggressive roster management compared to division rivals and preview upcoming World Cup matches with insights on group standings. 01:04 - Zach Benson Offer Sheet 06:41 - Sabres Roster Strategy Debate 11:13 - Sabres Calder Trophy Outlook 12:29 - World Cup Group Updates
The Atlantic Division landscape just shifted overnight. In this episode, we unpack the blockbuster Brady Tkachuk trade to Florida, separate fact from fiction on Zach Benson's rumored mega-extension, and map out how the Sabres can exploit a chaotic NHL market.
They evaluate the possibility of an Ottawa Senators offer sheet for Zach Benson and how the Buffalo Sabres might protect their assets. The discussion highlights TSN's trade bait list, specifically focusing on Bowen Byram and potential acquisitions like Connor Hellebuyck. Additionally, they analyze the US Men's National Team's bracket and their roadmap through the World Cup powerhouses. 01:04 - Zach Benson Offer Sheets 05:03 - Sabres Trade Bait List 09:18 - USA World Cup Path
Dennis Bernstein from The 4th Period & Sirius XM joins the show to answer all of the big hockey & Sabres questions leading up to the 2026 NHL Draft friday in Buffalo.
Full Show Broadcast. Gene has your hockey fill. Dennis Bernstein from The 4th Period & SiriusXM talks NHL & the Sabres ahead of the NHL Draft Friday in Buffalo. Alex Tuch or Bo Byram? The Ottawa Senators traded Brady Tkachuk to The Florida Panthers. Gene reflects on throwing gass at the Red Wings game Friday. Why is there a ribbon cutting ceremony at New Highmark Stadium Tuesday? Timmy's Hot Take, Wyndham Clark, Winter Olympic news and the great Ernie Clement.
The guys dive into the mounting trade rumors surrounding Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram, exploring his desire for a number-one role and how recent league moves impact his future in Buffalo. Plus, they break down the overwhelmingly positive fan reception to a potential long-term contract extension for rising star Zach Benson.
The guys dive into the mounting trade rumors surrounding Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram, exploring his desire for a number-one role and how recent league moves impact his future in Buffalo. Plus, they break down the overwhelmingly positive fan reception to a potential long-term contract extension for rising star Zach Benson.
The guys dive into the mounting trade rumors surrounding Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram, exploring his desire for a number-one role and how recent league moves impact his future in Buffalo. Plus, they break down the overwhelmingly positive fan reception to a potential long-term contract extension for rising star Zach Benson.
The guys dive into the mounting trade rumors surrounding Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram, exploring his desire for a number-one role and how recent league moves impact his future in Buffalo. Plus, they break down the overwhelmingly positive fan reception to a potential long-term contract extension for rising star Zach Benson.
Bill Hoppe, Joe Yerdon, and Paul Hamilton hit the WGR airwaves to break down the latest offseason trade rumors. The guys dive deep into what the future holds for Bowen Byram and Zach Benson amidst ongoing contract and trade talks.
Bill Hoppe, Joe Yerdon, and Paul Hamilton hit the WGR airwaves to break down the latest offseason trade rumors. The guys dive deep into what the future holds for Bowen Byram and Zach Benson amidst ongoing contract and trade talks.
Bill Hoppe, Joe Yerdon, and Paul Hamilton hit the WGR airwaves to break down the latest offseason trade rumors. The guys dive deep into what the future holds for Bowen Byram and Zach Benson amidst ongoing contract and trade talks.
Bill Hoppe, Joe Yerdon, and Paul Hamilton hit the WGR airwaves to break down the latest offseason trade rumors. The guys dive deep into what the future holds for Bowen Byram and Zach Benson amidst ongoing contract and trade talks.
"Tim Graham And Friends" brought to you by CTBK explores how much of a players' coach Joe Brady will be and whether Zach Benson ranks behind only Josh Allen in Buffalo sports popularity. Support "TGAF" while shopping Homage's line of Buffalo Bills and NFL gear: homage.sjv.io/7XOKgd
Joe Yerdon joins Bulldog to discuss reports of a massive seven-year contract extension for Zach Benson. They analyze the impact on the Buffalo Sabres' salary cap and the likelihood of Alex Tuch testing free agency. The discussion also covers potential trades involving Bowen Byram and goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
The Bulldog explores reports of a long-term contract extension for Zach Benson and considers the implications of potential trades involving Bowen Byram. He also provides updates on the US Open, USA soccer's match against Australia, and upcoming guest segments on the program. 01:49 - Buffalo Weather And Sports Update 05:46 - Soccer Culture And Fan Experiences 09:34 - Father's Day Program Preview 14:22 - USA Soccer Goal And Betting 16:04 - Zach Benson Contract Extension News
Brian Koziol joins the Bulldog to provide updates on the second round of the U.S. Open and discuss the challenging course conditions. They also transition to Buffalo Sabres news, focusing on Zach Benson's contract extension and potential roster moves involving Bowen Byram. 01:42 - Welcome Brian Koziel 07:01 - U.S. Open Course Conditions 14:10 - Scottie Scheffler Betting Odds 18:20 - Tee To Green Preview 19:54 - Zach Benson Extension Discussion
Paul Hamilton joins Bulldog to discuss the Buffalo Sabres' ongoing contract negotiations, highlighting the high approval for a potential long-term extension for Zach Benson. They examine the evolving value of Mattias Samuelsson's contract before diving into Bowen Byram's desire to test free agency to pursue a number one defenseman role.
1-2pm - Brad Riter and Tim Graham discuss Zach Benson potential contract extension and favorite Buffalo player
Full Hour 2 in The Sports Bar. Ryan Talbot from NY Upstate.com & The Shout Podcast with Matt Parrino joins Gene on the show to break down the interesting camp battles we will see at Fisher.
Full Show Broadcast (Award Winning) In The Sports Bar. Today's Guests include: New Rochester Knighthawks Head Coach Troy Cordingley & Buffalo Bills Reporter Ryan Talbot. Gene prepares to throw out the first pitch at the Red Wings game tonight. Tim shares "multiple" sports takes. Plus we have Bills & World Cup news for you.
Last Call in The Sports Bar. Gene gets you all set for tonight and previews next week on the show.
Gene dishes out shots & sports headlines.
Full Hour 1 in The Sports Bar. Award Wining Radio. New head coach Troy Cordingley joins the program to talk all things Knighthawks lacrosse. plus Timmy shares his take of the day.
Rochester Knighthawks new head coach Troy Cordingley makes his inaugural visit into The Sports Bar to talk about all things Knighthawks lacrosse. Plus an interesting World Cup take.
Matt Larkin from Daily Faceoff joins Schopp and Bulldog to analyze the Buffalo Sabres' successful season and the difficult roster decisions ahead. They discuss whether management should prioritize extending Alex Tuch or Zach Benson and explore potential trade packages involving Bowen Byram. The conversation also covers the team's depth in goaltending and expectations for the upcoming NHL Draft.