"If I can play all three preseason games, I'll play them all," Deslauriers said. "I missed so much time last year from an injury and after, just being a healthy scratch, it was probably one of the worst feelings I've had."
Deslauriers played in 42 games last season, his lowest mark since his rookie season of 2013-14, and was held to no goals and only two assists. His average ice time of 7:25 was a career low.
He went home to Quebec to refresh this summer, and has done the little things well enough in training camp thus far to impress his new coach.
"I think he's had an excellent camp," Phil Housley said. "He's gotten a lot of responsibilities in special teams areas, killing penalties, which he's really done a good job of. He's got to bring a physical aspect to the game, obviously that's a big part of his role so we're looking forward to seeing what he can do in the game tonight."
Deslauriers accumulated 53:38 of shorthanded ice time during the 2014-15 season, but he was used scarcely on the penalty kill during the last two seasons under Dan Bylsma. Housley has given him ample opportunity to prove he can be an asset in the area through three exhibition games.
"I love playing PK," Deslauriers said. "Special teams are a really big thing in the NHL now. If I can be on one of those, I would love that."
Doing things to separate himself from the pack becomes increasingly important with the addition of Nolan, who offers a similar blend of size and physicality. Others looking to solidify positions on the left wing include Matt Moulson and possibly one of Josefson and Larsson, depending on what the Sabres choose to do at the other two positions on their fourth line.
With a skill player in Josefson centering his line tonight, Deslauriers will look to contribute on offense by bringing speed and physicality on the forecheck.
"I can do my work and just get a forecheck and he can get the loose puck and find Larry on the other side," he said. "I love doing the dirty work."
