Two years ago, Brendan Guhle seemed to be a sure-fire lock to crack the Sabres defensive pairings before a concussion ended his surprising preseason run in 2015.
He again looked impressive in camp a year ago, and served as an emergency re-call for three games, but was ultimately sent back to juniors.
Third time is the charm, right?
You think you were happy Phil Housley was named #Sabres HC? Look at the smile on Bredan Guhle's face when asked about playing for the HOFer. pic.twitter.com/hqD0yiKTfz
— Nick Filipowski (@NICK_WKBW) July 9, 2017
There might not be a better defenseman in the system who fits the mold of what Hall of Fame Head Coach Phil Housley is looking for on the blueline.
With the new head coach and front office watching from the stands at HarborCenter, the 19-year-old once again showed his skating and puck-moving ability on the first day of Sabres Development camp.
Change, admittedly is sometimes hard, but when Guhle heard Housley was going to be the new head coach of the Sabres, he could barely contain himself.
"I was -- not relieved, but pretty excited. I know what kind of player he is." he said. "Maybe it could benefit me possibly. You know the way he coached the players in Nashville, if you watched during the playoffs, they're all smart and they're all good offensively. I'm sure he could teach me a lot."
Housley is widely considered the best American scoring defenseman in NHL history, racking up 1,232 points (338 goals, 894 assists) during his career.
But, making the roster might not be as cut and dry as maybe it’s been the last two years. New GM Jason Botterill was determined to improve the blueline and add depth at the position, which he did through trade and free agency with the acquisition of Marco Scandella, Nathan Beaulieu and the signing of Russian star Victor Antipin.
“Whatever happens, my goal is to still make the roster this year,” Guhle said after he wrapped up training. “It’s not supposed to be easy, I’m not supposed to be able to come in and have a spot ready for me, I have to earn it.
“I’ll have to show them in training camp and in the preseason that I’m ready to play, and I’m sure if I’m ready they’ll do what’s best for me.”
