NEWS FLASH;’ Michael Pegula sents brutal message to Don Granato over his….
The Buffalo Sabres have undoubtedly regressed this season. They almost missed the playoffs last year, and again, in the midst of a difficult campaign, they could miss the playoffs for the thirteenth straight year.
Buffalo hosted the Columbus Blue Jackets back in December. The Sabres were destroyed 9-4 at home against one of the poorest teams in the NHL, and both the team and the supporters would like to forget the game. Although the on-ice performance was terrible, the excitement was created in the spectators.
I’m not sure how many people said it, but some disgruntled Buffalo fans yelled, “Fire Donny.” When the Sabres lost to the Ottawa Senators the other night, I was present and heard the cry “Fire Donny” once more. After the first period, Buffalo was down 5-0, and there were a lot of booing in addition to the chant.
Then why am I stating this? Granato’s supporters would like him to be sacked. Even though I’m beginning to lose hope in Donny, I don’t think Buffalo will let him leave. My prediction is that they won’t allow him, at least not after this year, despite the horrible season.
Granato is adored by the players, to start. The team supported Granato during the December rout of Columbus, and there were rumors that certain players refused to salute the fans following victories because of the criticism directed at their coach.
Secondly, he is partially to fault, but not entirely. Ultimately, the players are the ones who decide the team’s performance. I disagree with some of his choices, but he is not the primary cause of Buffalo’s impending postseason exit.
Finally, he recently agreed to a contract extension. He locked up with Buffalo until the 2025–2026 season when he signed a two-year agreement prior to the start of the previous campaign. Even though they gave him an extension last year, I don’t think they’ll terminate him.
I am beginning to lose faith in Don, as I have indicated. It’s very bad, since I think he’s a great coach, but circumstances are hard right now. Like other Sabres supporters, I am also incredibly irritated. Although I said he wouldn’t be dismissed THIS offseason, I believe Buffalo wants to wait and see how things work out the next year.
