The Instigator Podcast

We open with a quick conversation on the Sabres new Hometown Remix jerseys before jumping into the latest on Dylan Larkin and Nikita Kucherov. We talk about the most recent developments around Larkin and how his situation has evolved to a point where the Red Wings hold a great deal of power. Later on, we break down the new trade request from Kucherov and the unique and somewhat surprising development from one of the most talented and influential players over the last 10 years.

The designer of the Sabres Hometown Remix jersey, Eric Bodamer, joins the show to provide insight into the design process, the regional history that served as inspiration and the details sprinkled throughout the jersey. Eric provides incredible background into the newest alternate jerseys, including some of the aspects of the jerseys that haven't been made public. As always, Eric was incredibly gracious with his time and offered up some awesome anecdotes and expertise from his incredible career in sports.

The Sabres missed out on Connor Hellebuyck but may be in on another American Olympian in Dylan Larkin. We break down the Hellebuyck trade and offer some final thoughts on the saga from Buffalo's perspective. We also run through the reports that the Sabres have interest in Larkin and debate whether a top center is more valuable to the Sabres than a number one goalie. All of this is done through the lens of determining if the Sabres are truly in win now mode, or if Jarmo Kekalainen has more of an eye to the future for his club. We close the episode with some thoughts on the leaked Sabres Hometown Remix jersey, which has both of us excited for the official launch.

Connor Hellebuyck's saga may be drawing to a close as a potential deadline approaches this week. We discuss the ongoing rumor mill that surrounds Hellebuyck and the persistent connections between the goaltender and the Sabres. We kick off the show with a discussion on the state of the Atlantic Division and how Buffalo's woeful special teams will make their climb in the East a more difficult task.

It's been an up-and-down run for the Sabres after seven games. While they haven't ripped off a run of wins, they've posted wins against some of the league's best, though their consistency has been a sticking point. Forward contributions have been especially hot and cold and we run down which players in the forward groups have been dragging down Buffalo's results. We also highlight the Olen Zellweger's encouraging play and the general strength of Buffalo's blueline.