The Buffalo Sabres have re-signed feisty forward, Matt Ellis to a one year deal. Ellis, who tallied 13 points (3g 10a) in 72 games last season, brings an edge to a squad littered with soft players.
By no stretch of the imagination is Ellis a scorcher on offense, but you cannot deny the guys' work ethic. Where as some players on this team give a less than stellar effort night after night, Ellis puts in 110% of effort night in and out.
It really makes you appreciate Ellis who knows his skills are less than phenomenal, but brings an energy unlike any out there to force opponents to make silly plays based on the extreme pressure he brings.
Ellis is a solid signing and a great role player for any 4th line.
Now the Sabres have somewhat of a plethora of forwards on their hands. Potential lines could be...
Pominville - Connolly - Stafford
Vanek - Roy - Ennis
Hecht - Niedermayer - Grier
Gerbe - Gaustad - Ellis
Kaleta - Mancari - McCormick
...Something's wrong here. 5 full lines of NHL ready forwards. I understand, you would want depth at this position because of injuries and what not, but all these guys need to play.
I know it's easier said than done, but why can't you unload two players (not just scraps ex: Roy & Stafford etc.) for an elite all star forward. The all-star replaces Roy (who is a disappearing act in the playoffs anyway) and a guy on the 5th line steps in for Stafford.
I believe this team needs a superstar to compliment Vanek on offense. Vanek isn't the kind of talent to carry a team, he's more of a compliment... A "Hossa" to a "Toews." Or a "Malkin" to a "Crosby"
I know it's a pipedream but his name has been tossed around in trade rumors this offseason, but the ideal candidate to play that roll is Carolina's, Eric Staal. Aggressive and talented center who comes up big in big situations.
With Staal, this team automatically becomes a Cup contender. Without him, it's more of stretch.
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