Buffalo Defenseman, Nathan Paetsch, will make his NHL debut tonight---------
At Left Wing, that is!
Paetsch was all smiles at practice today, as it was announced by Lindy Ruff, that #38 will be manning the wall, as opposed to moving back to the press box.
Paetsch's prescence on the PP Point has yielded a sudden spark.
You see, Hank Tallinder will make his return to his D spot this evening. That, in an of itself, relegates Paetsch to 7th D status, hence, a box of popcorn and a seat next to you know who on press row.
Paetsch has made such a strong and profound statement to his coaches and teammates in the time that he has played D, that he is a vital cog in the wheel that drives the Sabres forward. An amazing accomplishment when you consider that Paetsch is in his first full NHL season.
Paetsch layed D and wing for Randy Cunneyworth in Rochester-- and he succeeded at both. Lindy Ruff loves Partsch's versatility and will work Paetsch where he sees fit.
" Nathan has played very well for us. He'll play some upfront and on the back end. He may take someone's spot. We'll have to see how the game goes", said Ruff after practice today.
Heads up, Dmitri.
Ruff knows a thing or two about being a Dman, playing the wall.
Scotty Bowman used to work Ruff at both positions when Ruf wore the Blue and Gold.
Dan Paille and I spoke about Paetsch's promotion after practice today.
" Nathan is a very good athlete. It doesn't surprise me that the coaches here like his ability up front. He played it well in Rochester, and it makes him more valuable to the team when he can slide back ad play D", said Paille.
Paille recounted for me the legend of Paetsch at Wing in Rochester.
" The story is true that Nathan was telling a bit of a story to Randy Cunneyworth when he was asked to play wing in Roch. Randy needed a winger and Paetsch put his hand up, and away he went. Hilarious".
You see, Paetsch was drafted in the early rounds by Washington as a Dman from the WHL. He played a little wing, however, his natural position is D. His coach needed a winger, and Paetsch fibbed to get the job. Paetsch played well enough in Rochester to earn himself a regular shift.
For all you kids, its a great story.
Listen to your House coaches and learn as many positions as you can.
You never know when your coach will need a hero !
When opportunity knocks, be ready to answer!!
I told you guys that Paetsch is a stone cold player !!
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Here are the lines that were on the ice in practice the past two days:
VANEK-DRURY-KOTALIK
POMMER-BRIERE-HECHT
PAILLE-ROY-MAX
PAETSCH-GOSE-MAIR
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