Lindy Ruff Urges Jiri Kulich as Sabres Seek Offensive Boost
The Buffalo Sabres are currently facing a challenging start to their season, particularly with the absence of their top center, Josh Norris. Coach Lindy Ruff has indicated that Jiri Kulich is his initial choice to step up in Norris’s place, but the young player’s performance has not met expectations.
Lindy Ruff Calls for Improvement from Jiri Kulich
Following Norris’s long-term injury, Jiri Kulich was expected to play a vital role on the top line. However, after four days and two games, he found himself practicing on the fifth line and possibly facing a healthy scratch for the upcoming game against the Ottawa Senators. Ruff expressed disappointment, stating, “We need to be better. He needs to make more plays. His skating inside the game hasn’t been where it was last year.”
Kulich’s Underwhelming Performance
- Kulich, 21, has yet to score in three games.
- He has managed only seven shots on goal and holds a minus-4 rating.
- During his time on the ice, the Sabres have secured just 36 percent of expected goals at five-on-five.
- Last season, he contributed 15 goals in 62 games, raising hopes for his offensive resurgence.
This season, the team is struggling offensively, having scored only two goals in three games. Kulich’s lack of production is becoming a focal point for Ruff, who is searching for a spark in the lineup as the team faces a three-game losing streak. The Sabres are eager for a win, especially in front of their home crowd.
Roster Adjustments and Offensive Challenges
The Sabres have reshuffled their lineup in light of recent struggles. Notable forwards include:
- Zach Benson – Tage Thompson – Alex Tuch
- Jason Zucker – Ryan McLeod – Josh Doan
- Jack Quinn – Peyton Krebs – Justin Danforth
- Josh Dunne – Tyson Kozak – Beck Malenstyn
The current forward group lacks scoring depth, and the team is looking to fill the void left by recent trades. Josh Dunne has been called up but is not recognized for significant offensive output. In the AHL last season, he scored just 10 goals.
Injuries and Player Returns
The Sabres are also awaiting the return of key players. Zach Benson is anticipated to make his season debut after recovering from facial injury complications. Jordan Greenway is nearing a return as well but remains focused on regaining his scoring touch after undergoing multiple surgeries. Meanwhile, RB goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is dealing with muscle cramping issues but is slowly getting back to full strength.
Coaching Approach and Future Outlook
Despite the current offensive woes, General Manager Kevyn Adams emphasizes the importance of defensive strategies over simply replacing goal-scoring output. Ruff notes that the team’s game plan is shifting towards becoming a more strategic and mature squad. Current statistics show the Sabres have the lowest goals scored in the league, which needs to change quickly.
The Sabres aim to break their losing streak and avoid becoming the first team in franchise history to start 0-4-0. Their upcoming game against the Ottawa Senators will be crucial as they strive to improve their performance on both ends of the ice.
