Hasek missed 40 games last season with a groin injury. He's back this season ready to go and even hinting this year might not be his last, as he previously announced. If he regains the form that earned him two MVP awards, the Sabres might be ready for another playoff run. The backup goaltender spot should belong to Martin Biron, but at press time Biron and the Sabres have yet to reach an agreement. Biron played well while filling for Hasek last year, but might lose his backup job if Noronen is impressive in camp and his holdout is prolonged.
Defense is one area the Sabres are rock solid in.
Jay McKee and Rhett Warrener are the young guns of the defense. They are both strong hitters. Jason Woolley, Richard Smehlik and James Patrick are battle tested veterans. Alexei Zhitnik had a tough year last year, but figures to improve this season. The battle for the seventh spot will come down to two top prospects, Brian Campbell and Dmitri Kalinin.