Kassian, Foligno ready to go with future expectations

Sabres fans are licking their chops at the prospects of watching Team Canada's Zack Kassian and Marcus Foligno skate on HSBC Arena ice over the next twelve days as the IIHF conducts the 2011 World Junior Championship. After all, the object of their NHL rooting interest has a 6.5% of making the playoffs so it makes sense to look for future hope.

And just like that, more Sabres fans care about what I do. I'm getting more emails and texts about Kassian. Co-workers are asking questions about the two playing on the same line. My Blackberry and mouth need a massage.

To summarize the conversations, we've all witnessed how playing in the World Junior Championship elevates a player's game to more dominating level. What a player immediately does with the experience, at least with the Sabres anyways, goes a long way in projecting their effectiveness as a professional.

Last season, Luke Adam scored 25 goals and 27 assists in 32 QMJHL games (1.63 ppg) before playing for Team Canada. The big forward returned to pot 24 goals in his final 24 games with Cape Breton, and carried that pace into 2010-11 with an AHL Rookie of the Month honor in his first as a pro.

Prior to skating alongside Tyler Myers at the 2009 tourney, Tyler Ennis averaged 1.16 points-per-game (31GP 15-21-36) with Medicine Hat (WHL) before ripping off 28 goals and 21 assists in his final 30 games (1.63 PPG) to cap his second consecutive 85-point season. Ennis went on the impress the following year, earning AHL Rookie of the Year and a firm spot on the big club.

Do I even need to mention Myers? He didn't become the Calder winning monster that he is until after the 2009 tournament.

So what does this all mean for Kassian and Foligno? Given the make-up of the two players, it's fair to expect the spike to continue.

Kassian has himself been a monster this season in Windsor with 15-33-48 in just 25 games. It's going to be hard for him to maintain his 1.92 ppg pace, but if he can keep it steady with 1.75 over the final 30 games, he'll be the first Sabres prospect to hit the 100-point mark since London's Dylan Hunter did it in 2004-05 and 2005-06. Combine the Ennis and Adam trend with how physically dominant he is against 17-18-19's, and it seems that Kassian hits the target barring injury or suspension, and could blow past it if he gets traded to a top contender.

As far as Foligno is concerned, it's all gravy from here. The 6'3 leader has already posted a career-high in goals with 15 in his first 28 games, and is likely to use the experience to prove that he can beat the D on the forecheck and a cause trouble in front of the opposing net. Foligno works hard, and any exposure to faster, stronger players makes him work harder. Hard work equals production, so I'm setting the final 2010-11 target at 33 goals and 75 points for a weak Sudbury squad.

Every theory has an anomaly, so it's worth mentioning how Clarke MacArthur earned his 2005 World Junior look by amassing 14-27-41 in 30 games with Medicine Hat, but failed to vault his offense upon return with a still-respectable 33 points in his final 28 games. What's funny is that MacArthur's 'starting' trend has continued in the NHL, with nearly half of his 53 career goals coming in October and November...

If we've learned anything, it's that making Team Canada is great but what you do after matters most.

And one last thing - exhibition action saw Kassian and Foligno skate on a line with 2011 draft stud Sean Couturier. With the Sabres sinking and Derek Roy out for the balance of the year, Sabres fans may want to keep an eye on the prize. A prime-time offensive talent, Couturier is currently numero uno on my draft board.

The fun beings with Canada-Russia today (Sunday). Enjoy the games. GO USA!

Pre-tourney cruise continues for Sabres duo

With the World Junior Championship looming, let's cruise through some of the press hits on Sabres prospects Zack Kassian and Marcus Foligno. The towering 2009 picks, who each have a goal through two exhibition contests, are currently skating together Canada's top line centered by talented 2011 draft stud Sean Couturier of the QMJHL's Drummondville Voltigeurs.

The Canadian Press reports on Foligno's recent upswing and the opportunity to win gold in Buffalo.

Foligno understands some time developing in the American Hockey League is likely in his future, as is plenty of more work in the weight room. The strength of NHLers really made an impression on him during camp with the Sabres.

"In the OHL you go into a corner, take the body on a guy, to protect the puck you stick out your butt and they can't reach around you," said Foligno. "When you get into the NHL, I kind of took it for granted, I went into a corner with a smaller defenceman and he pushed me around and took the puck out, so I was like, 'OK, I've got to take another view of how I'm going to control the puck and get stronger.'"

The one thing for certain with Foligno is that his effort won't be questioned.

Earlier in the week, NHL Network caught up with Foligno after Canada's exhibition win over Switzerland. He briefly describes his role as a physical forechecker.



In an TSN interview, Foligno addresses Canada's two-way depth and goal scoring ability.

With Foligno getting some well-earned media attention, Zack Kassian is also seeing his name featured in a positive light after a trying 2009-10. A recent Calgary Herald piece details the "controlled aggression" he has used to make him one of the more dangerous scorers in junior hockey.

Kassian was one of the best players on the ice during Canada's pre-tournament exhibition game against Sweden on Tuesday night.

He used his size, strength and deceptive speed to charge the net early in the second period, drawing a holding penalty on the play to give Canada a two-man advantage.

He scored moments later.

"I think he's learned to be the prototypical 'pro' winger," said Hockey Canada head scout Kevin Prendergast.

"He's got soft hands, he can score. He goes to the net, he can fight and he's got all the ingredients that every NHL team is looking for in a winger."

Another good Kassian quote was served by the Windsor Star's Jim Parker on the topic of playing for the enemy in front of Sabres fans.

"Buffalo fans can watch me play and get a feel for how I play," said Kassian, who isn't sure if his physical style will make him a villain. "I don't know. I'll let them decide. There's a lot of big guys here that are physical."

Kassian feels the Canadians will gel as a team and be ready for the task of repaying the Americans for their win on Canadian soil a year ago.

"I think there's solid chemistry," Kassian said. "It's a great task for Canada. You're in the U.S. and they'll be ramped up."

So Sabres fans - what are you expecting?

Will Kassian's disciplined ways continue in an emotionally charged environment?

Can Foligno's grit lead to a big goal for Canada?

Who wins the tournament?

Enjoy the games...

12/18 Recap: Shipley scores in old barn; Eidsness returns

Steven Shipley scored his 10th goal of the year Saturday as Niagara earned a key road win over Owen Sound, 5-2. The game was Shipley's first against his former teammates after a September exchange since him south to St. Catharines. Ryan Strome ('11) scored his 19th of the season for the IceDogs, who will now break until their game against Oshawa on the 29th.

In the WHL, Brayden McNabb extended his point streak to seven games with an assist while earning his second fighting major of the year as Kootenay coughed up a loss to Red Deer, 6-4. The Ice held a 4-1 lead after the opening twenty minutes before allowing the Rebs to shut them out with five unanswered goals the rest of the way. The Kootenay captain was ornery throughout, earning 19 minutes in penalties including five for dropping his gloves with 6'2 Josh Cowen in the second period.



Also from the Dub, Riley Boychuk was -1 with a slashing minor as Portland stumbled against Seattle, 4-2. For the second straight night, the 6'5 forward took a penalty that resulted in a power play goal against.

Mark Pysyk finished +1 as Edmonton was defeated by Saskatoon, 4-2. Brent Benson ('11) had a pair of goals to pace the winning Blades.

Corey Fienhage finished -1 with a roughing minor as Kamloops was upended by Prince George, 3-2.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc had an assist in Rimouski's 2-1 overtime win over Baie-Comeau. After scoring 20 goals last season, the 6'2 right-hander has just four through his first 31 games and none in his last eleven.

In the college ranks, Brad Eidsness earned the exhibition nod, making 21 saves in his first start since November 19th as North Dakota defeated the Team USA U18's, 2-1. Eidsness made several key saves as the game wore on, earning the praise of his teammates and coaches in post-game interviews below. Eidsness starts things off for the first 2+ minutes. UND coach Dave Hakstol later speaks.



Drew MacKenzie (injured, day-to-day) did not play as Vermont lost at St. Lawrence, 6-4.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson contributed four shots on goal as Sioux Falls lost in a shootout to Fargo, 4-3. The 6'0 pivot was stopped at the third Herd shooter to end the game.

12/17 Recap: Sutch scores; McNabb extends streak

Gregg Sutch scored his fifth goal of the season Friday as Mississauga clobbered Sudbury, 9-4. Ranked #2 in the most recent CHL rankings, the Majors (27-4-0-1) move on to a Sunday meeting with Kingston. The Wolves were playing without captain Marcus Foligno, who of course will be away for the next three weeks as Team Canada competes for the 2011 World Junior Championship.

Elsewhere in the OHL, Steven Shipley picked up an assist as Niagara destroyed Barrie, 10-0. Shipley, who watched as 13 different teammates collaborated for nine goals before finally checking in with a power play helper at 5:41 of the third period, now has 26 points (9+17) at the 30-game mark.

In the WHL, Brayden McNabb extended his point-streak to six games by picking up an assist as Kootenay shot past Red Deer, 4-1. The steady 6'4 defender has nine points (3+6) over the stretch. The Ice (23-9-1-2) were ranked #8 in this week's CHL rankings.

Kevin Sundher set up the game's only goal on the power play as Chilliwack edged Edmonton, 1-0. Sundher is now ranked 8th in the WHL in PP assists, with 14 of his 24 season helpers coming with the man advantage. Meanwhile, only two of his 11 goals have come in that capacity. Mark Pysyk played even in his return to the Oil Kings lineup after a long week of travel and nervous energy trying to make Canada's U20 squad.

Corey Fienhage posted his sixth point of the season as Kamloops lost to Prince George, 3-2. The 6'4 defenseman has nine points, all assists, in 71 games played over his three seasons since leaving high school. He last scored a goal on April 5, 2008 as a member of the USHL's Indiana Ice.

Matt MacKenzie finished -1 as Calgary was defeated by Kelowna, 5-1. The Hitmen are now off until the 28th when they take on Brandon.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished +1 with two shots on goal as Rimouski earned a 3-2 win over lowly Baie-Comeau. The offensive-minded defenseman has gone ten straight games without scoring a goal.

12/16 Recap: Boychuk, McNabb help teams to victory

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc contributed two shots on goal Thursday as Rimouski defeated Chicoutimi, 3-2. After averaging .676 points-per-game last year in Rouyn-Noranda, the 6'2 defenseman has shown a slight drop-off to .655 this season with the Nics.

In Wednesday action, Riley Boychuk assisted on the game-winning goal as Portland edged Kamloops, 5-4. The power-play apple was Boychuk's 17th point of the season. Corey Fienhage finished -1 for the Blazers.

Kevin Sundher (-1) saw his four-game point streak snapped in Chilliwack's 3-1 loss to Red Deer. The 6'0 center is currently trending for a 79-point finish in 2010-11.

Brayden McNabb posted an assist in his first game back from Selection Camp as Kootenay defeated Calgary, 3-2. Matt MacKenzie (-1) earned his second fighting major of the season in the loss when he took on 6'2 Matt Fraser late in the first period.




On Tuesday, MacKenzie earned an assist as the Hitmen scored three unanswered goals to overcome Chilliwack, 3-2. Kevin Sundher posted an assist for the Bruins in the loss.

Foligno interview reveals mature leader

Thanks to reader Jason I. for sending this interview clip of Marcus Foligno. He writes:

I was wondering if you had seen an interview with Marcus Foligno that has shown up on the internet. It comes from a show called 10 Minute Major. I guess it airs on the radio in northern Ontario. Anyways, their first guest was Marcus Foligno. They talk about Sabres Camp, becoming a captain, and being coached by his father. They even talked about how the passing of his mother effected his game, and how he has improved his scoring touch. I thought you would enjoy it.

As I stated in my reply, Marcus is a great kid who works his tail off and deserves all the good things that come to him. I'm really looking forward to his first Foligno leap in blue and gold. Enjoy the interview as I did.

Future letter-wearer in Buffalo?

New pals Kassian, Foligno World Junior bound

Congratulations to Sabres prospects Zack Kassian and Marcus Foligno for being named to Canada’s 2011 National Junior Team. The right wing combo will wear the maple leaf sweater starting December 26 when the World Junior Championship kick-off at HSBC Arena.

Acquired via the 2009 draft, both 6’3 forwards have been carving up the Ontario Hockey League this season. Kassian, who leads the Windsor Spitfires with 15 goals and 48 points, is currently ranked fifth in OHL scoring and is on pace to be the first Sabres prospect to eclipse the 100-point mark since Dylan Hunter did it in 2004-05 and 2005-06 with the London Knights.

Foligno has blossomed this season as captain of the Sudbury Wolves, potting a career-best 15 goals and team-leading 33 points. Inside of that is a league-leading four short-handed marks. He was the star of the camp scrimmages with three goals, an assist, and a collection of solid hits that left a few players sore. Speculation was that Foligno could lend a hand in the dirty areas of the ice, and it seems that the Hockey Canada brass took notice.

At the 2009 draft, then-Sudbury coach (and former Sabres captain) Mike Foligno said that the Sabres drafted the two toughest kids in the “O”. Canada was expected to bring the beef in hopes of reclaiming the gold from the United States, and they got plenty of it with these two Sabres hopefuls.

One of the best parts of the story is that Kassian and Foligno have become good friends since entering the organization together. The comaraderie only gets deeper as the two work together over the next month to achieve what should be their first of many common goals. The new pals join Luke Adam, Tyler Ennis, and Tyler Myers as recent Sabres prospects to skate for the Canadian National Junior Team.

Buffalo’s first pick this past June, Mark Pysyk of the Edmonton Oil Kings, showed off his skating and intelligence in the three selection camp contests but was released from the squad as part of Wednesday’s final cuts. The Oil Kings captain returns to the WHL with a goal, 13 assists, and a +8 rating through 24 games. Fellow Western Leaguer Brayden McNabb of the Kootenay Ice was among Tuesday’s first wave of cuts.

For more on the story, please rewind a bit to read my thoughts before the camp roster was announced. At the time, Foligno was considered a longshot to make the team. My how things change in a few short weeks.

McNabb goes back to Kootenay

Brayden McNabb was returned to the Kootenay Ice Tuesday morning as Team Canada trimmed their National Team Selection Camp roster by nine players. The 6'4 defenseman, who spent the majority of the action paired with OHLers Ryan Ellis and Ryan Murphy, registered one assist in two intrasquad games. The Ice captain returns to the WHL with four goals, 23 points, and a +14 rating in 21 games this season.

Canada's boasts a strong fleet of defensemen, and their recent emphasis on mobile puck movers could explain why he was sent home while younger, less experienced blueliners like 2010 first-rounder Mark Pysyk remain with the team.

Marcus Foligno, the star of Sunday night's contest, and Zack Kassian remain among the forward hopefuls.

Kassian lights lamp as Canadian cutdown nears

Windsor Spitfires forward Zack Kassian scored an even strength goal Monday as Team White toppled Team Red 7-5 in the final intrasquad scrimmage at Canada's National Junior Selection Camp. The 6'3 Kassian, again skating on a line with Michael Bournival (MTL) and Sean Couturier ('11), finished a play started by Spits teammate Ryan Ellis to tie to game 2-2 at :51 of the second period.

Red's Marcus Foligno posted a primary assist in the first period to give him two goals and an assist in the two camp contests, while 2009 third-rounder Brayden McNabb earned an assist on a first period power play for Team White. McNabb, the 6'4 captain of the WHL's Kootenay Ice, was tabbed for the exhibition shootout at the end of the game but was stopped by Coyotes prodspect Mark Visentin.

Edmonton Oil Kings captain Mark Pysyk skated for Red, earning a hooking minor early in the third period that was killed off.

Selection camp action closes Tuesday when Canada ices a roster against a team comprised of CIS players.

It's going to be difficult keeping Sudbury captain Foligno off the National Junior Team roster. An underdog entering camp, the 6'3 grinder has used his body in all three zones while executing quite well offensively on a line with Riley Sheahan (DET) and Curtis Hamilton (EDM). Canadian coach Dave Cameron called Foligno "the biggest surprise of camp" heading into Monday's game.

Along with Foligno, Kassian has maintained an inside track heading into final cutdown. One of the biggest players in camp, the Spits top point-getter is expected to be a physical scoring line leader when the tournament begins on the 26th. Wearing the maple leaf sweater would complete a nice turnaround for the 2009 first-rounder after failing to receive a selection camp invite a year ago.

The Sabres two camp rearguards, Pysyk and McNabb, remain in a pool of players fighting for what appears to be the #6 and #7 spots behind incumbents Ryan Ellis (NSH), Jared Cowen (OTT), Calvin de Haan (NYI), and first-rounders Erik Gudbranson (FLA) and Dylan Olsen (CHI). I like McNabb's blend of size, experience, and two-way competence as deciding factors if smaller players like Tyson Barrie (COL) and 17-year olds Ryan Murphy and Ryan Murray can't jump up and take a job, but there are no guarantees.

With the slick skating Pysyk looking more like a no-brainer for 2012 consideration when the tourney hits his home turf of Edmonton/Calgary, I'm looking at McNabb versus 6'4 Simon Despres (PIT) for at least one of those bottom spots. Both could be plenty effective in a limited role, and could provide a more physical dimension than Jesse Blacker (TOR), an experienced OHLer who was a +46 two seasons ago as a member of the Memorial Cup winning Spitfires.

We'll see what happens.

12/12 Recap: Sutch chips in; Eidsness sits again

Gregg Sutch (+3) posted a pair of assists and a fighting major Sunday as Mississauga defeated Barrie, 6-3. The helpers move Sutch's season line to 4-14-18 +15, which should be considered a solid contribution from a role player on a strong junior club. With just under five minutes to play in the game, the 6'2 forward engaged feisty 5'8 defenseman Norm Ezekiel for his fourth scrap of the year and a new career-high in penalty minutes with 58.



In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie collected a power play assist as Calgary pitched a 2-0 shutout of Red Deer. With a total of 12, MacKenzie is currently tied with fellow 2010 third-rounder Kevin Sundher for 13th overall in the WHL in power play assists. The 6'2 defenseman has gathered two goals and 17 points in 30 games played this season.

Drew MacKenzie finished even with a shot on goal as Vermont earned their second win of the season by taking down #19 Dartmouth, 6-5. Despite the team's struggles, the offensive-minded MacKenzie's .36 p/gp production (14GP 1+4) remains relatively flat after marks of .27 and .39 in his first two collegiate seasons.

In the WCHA, Justin Jokinen recorded two shots on goal as Minnesota State was swept by #5 North Dakota, 4-2. Junior goaltender Brad Eidsness again rode the Sioux bench, and has now started just one of their last twelve games since getting one win in his first four outings. In his first two NCAA seasons, Eidness posted back-to-back 24-win campaigns.

Christian Isackson did not play as Sioux Falls ended a four-game skid with a 4-3 win over Des Moines. Buffalo native Anthony Day had a goal for the Herd.