The Instigator Podcast

The Sabres start their defense of the Atlantic Division title on Thursday with their sights set on making it back-to-back years with a playoff appearance. They enter the season with a handful of troubling injuries and a host of young players who will be relyed upon for key contributions throuhgout the year. This abbreviated episode runs down some of the notable storylines ahead of the season opener.

Two of four preseason games are complete and the Sabres are already dealing with some injury troubles. With Jason Zucker already out, Olen Zellweger and Mattias Samuelsson both left Tuesday's preseason game early, leaving the Sabres with some notable absences from their NHL lineup. This episode also explores some of the latest in the NHL's expansion race, discussing whether or not the Texas bid will come together and what the logical next step will be for the league.

The Sabres open training camp this week with the door open for their exciting young core. We run down Noah Ostlund's new contract and how it fits into the other contracts the Sabres signed this offseason. As we look ahead to training camp, we also discuss the latest in the Connor Hellebuyck saga as Darren Dreger reported the goaltender isn't expected to report to training camp. The new development drastically shifts the leverage held by the Kevin Cheveldayoff as Hellebuyck angles for a better situation.

The first Queen City Hockey Expo takes place on Sunday, August 9 at Buffalo Riverworks. Event organizer and founder Chris Holmes joins the show to discuss the event and what attendees can expect. The event inclues a gear swap and several events and seminars that will take place during the day.

As July comes to an end, it seemed like a perfect time for a mailbag episode. This edition's listener questions include a querey on Connor McDavid, line combinations for next season, the ever concerning power play and more! Thanks to everyone who submitted questions.