Down On The Farm: Is Today The Day? It Is!
Last night, some late-breaking news completely unrelated to the Robyn Regehr trade or draft broke that could completely take over Sabres-related headlines today. I’ll give the mic to Chris Roy at this point…
Word from sources is the Sabres will announce the purchase of the Rochester Americans tomorrow.—
Chris Roy (@MEHockeyJournal) June 24, 2011
Waiting to here back from the Sabres on a confirmation…. Word is a press conference will be held on Tuesday or Wednesday in Rochester.—
Chris Roy (@MEHockeyJournal) June 24, 2011
It’s widely assumed that the Dineen-coached Panthers will take over for the Sabres in Portland, but Chris warns there might be a surprise contender:
One would think, but don't discount Phoenix… They were in Portland last week looking at the locker rooms… (cont) http://deck.ly/~VwoLB—
Chris Roy (@MEHockeyJournal) June 24, 2011
John Vogl from the Buffalo News is also reporting that it could very well happen today before the draft. Probable Amerks announcement, possible Regehr trade, and the draft all in one day? Oh snap.
UPDATE: Kevin Oklobzija has some encouraging words for you, Sabres and Amerks fans:
Various media outlets have said the Buffalo Sabres may announce today the purchase of the Rochester Americans.
The Maine Hockey Journal and the Buffalo News both reported that the announcement — one everyone has known is coming — actually may finally be made today.
I’m here to tell you the announcement WILL come today.
The American Hockey League’s board of governors at 1 p.m. will conduct a special vote-by-phone board meeting to approve the transer of the Amerk franchise to Sabres owner Terry Pegula.
Sabres will announce purchase of Amerks today
Following up on Kevin’s story, Maine sportswriter Dan Hickling had this to say:
@kevinoDandC presser in Portland today at 2:15 with BPetrovek … reax—
Dan Hickling (@DanHickling) June 24, 2011
For those curious, “BPetrovek” would be Portland Pirates managing partner Brian Petrovek.
There it is, Western New York hockey fans. The only question left is who will fill the Sabres’ role in Portland. We’ll find out later today.
