#DUFFALO: Good people, pint glass pranks & the blues

ON ICE

We (Dan, Rob, and Brad) talked on our pregame show about who would be impacted most by Eichel's return and all that were mentioned - Sam Reinhart, the defense corps, and Ryan O'Reilly - all had significant spikes in their production.
But the story of the night was Jack.

From here on out, the nightly line matchups will be really interesting to watch, as the Sabres try to maximize the return of their greatest asset.

OFF ICE

The latest BBG is out - The Maturation of Marcus!

Phenomenal job by our Beyond Blue and Gold crew again, especially videographer Travis Carlson, who did a lot of running to capture those incredible shots in the opening sequence.
At one point, Marcus actually thought there was a bear scampering behind them because he had no idea Travis was going to be attempting to run and shoot at the same time!
There are a lot of super hockey families out there, but few could be more accommodating and polite than the Folignos. Consider this text from Nick as evidence:

A busy month was highlighted for me by a couple of events that featured players in unique situations.
As we approached Veterans Day, a curious and attentive group of players (Foligno, Reinhart, Matt Moulson, Johan Larsson, Zach Bogosian and Casey Nelson) toured the USS The Sullivans and USS Croaker submarine at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park.
It was a huge eye-opener for all of them who - while used to the team dynamic - seemed in near disbelief at the harsh realities of day to day life for these servicemen and women, especially when thinking of them in active combat situations.
I would encourage everyone to make a trip down there if you've never been.

And with the holiday season just around the corner, another group took a night to join the kids from Camp Good Days - painting ornaments to be sold at the Galleria Mall in the lead-up to Christmas.
Evander Kane, Nicholas Baptiste, and Derek Grant were among those who were really into it with the kids, and the feelings were mutual.
This wasn't just a visit. This was incredibly interactive.

I consider myself beyond fortunate to be able to take part in events like this. The opportunity to listen to these inspirational kids who are willing to share such difficult details of their struggles, or that of their siblings is one that stays with you forever. So again, a huge thanks to Camp Good Days for everything they bring to our community!

LIFE ON THE ROAD

It doesn't matter what night of the week you visit St. Louis, the blues are always there for the taking. And nothing brings people together quite like this.
First stop: BB's Jazz, Blues and Soups

And just down the street, the Broadway Oyster Bar

Thanks to our new friend Sheril who offered to share her table so we had a front row seat at our last stop.

St. Louis also netted Sabres.com beat writer Jourdon LaBarber a new souvenir!
J-don and his glass were the victims of a practical joke that lasted about two weeks before the pair were reunited. He looks relieved now, doesn't he?

Our stop in DC represented the first time I've ever had turkey dinner (with all the trimmings) while sitting at the bar. Thanks to the good folks at Stoney's on L. We'll see you again Sunday for the Bills-Raiders game!
And while it wasn't a road trip with the Sabres, I did manage to squeeze in a brief getaway with my family between our stops in Washington and Ottawa.
The reason I mention this?
So I can submit to you perhaps the least known, spectacular music venue I've ever been to.
The Alternate Routes put on a flawless show in Rockport, Massachusetts and if you haven't heard/don't know the tragic story behind their latest single "Somewhere in America," I hope you'll take the time to listen.
The Alternate Routes

IN THE COMMUNITY

Wings of a different kind.
Thanks to the renewal of a partnership between the Sabres and Catholic Charities of Buffalo, the Holiday Angels program is back for this holiday season, and this is something we can all get behind.
If you're interested in adopting a family, please click here for more details.
And a big thanks to those of you who've been supporting a personal cause of mine, the Alix Rice Peace Park Foundation! It's not too late to get in on the #GivingTuesday movement. All the details available at www.AlixRice.com

#Duffalo Three Stars

For the period ending November 30
1. Jack Eichel - As good as his season debut was, I enjoyed chatting with him pre- and postgame just as much. The right words at the right time. Love it.
2. Ryan O'Reilly - He was the last one off the ice Tuesday morning and the best player on it Tuesday night for the Sabres. "Factor" is the greatest benefactor of Eichel's return.
3. The Folignos - Not breaking news, but just about the nicest people you'll ever meet.