Pat LaFontaine has been working full time in Buffalo for just three weeks. he say that it seems like more than that. The new president of hockey operations sat down for a revealing one-on-one with my friend Chris "The Bulldog" Parker this afternoon.
LaFontaine revealed that he has had more interviews with more GM candidates then he had first anticipated. LaFontaine cited that many of the candidates have expressed to him that they would love to come to Buffalo to work for the Pegulas and the Buffalo Sabres. He also added that he has interviewed some people with whom he has great relationships.
LaFontaine says that he is glad that he expanded his "short list".
"If the candidate that we choose isn't available right away, then we'll wait".
Rick Dudley took himself out of the running last week.
Jim Benning, perhaps?
Paul Fenton?
Steve Tambellini?
Joe Nieuwendyk?
LaFontaine isn't naming names. His Magical GM Mystery Tour resumes next week.
Regarding Ryan Miller, Ted Nolan raised eyebrows on Wednesday when he said that he'd like to have Miller be his goalie rather than use him as a "pawn" in a trade to acquire building blocks for the #Blueprint. LaFontaine said emphatically that he and Miller have had conversations about his veteran goalie's future in Buffalo. LaFontaine says that Miller has earned that respect for what he has done in Buffalo and in the NHL.
LaFontaine wants to know where Miller is at in his thought process. Conversely, he wants Miller to know where the organization is at. Does Miller want to move on to another city via trade or free agency, or, does he want to sign an extension to stay in Buffalo. LaFontaine says that the conversations will continue with Miller.
Listen to "Bulldog" and LaFontaine here:
" Thanks, WGR