Change is the key word for the Sabres, but there was one thing Dan Bylsma wanted to keep the same. Brian Gionta will still wear the “C” on his jersey as Buffalo’s captain.
While Gionta’s off-ice professionalism and reputation earned him the captaincy last year, it is the 36-year-old’s on-ice actions that have helped him retain the honor.
Bylsma pointed to Gionta’s efforts during a preseason game against Toronto last Tuesday. The puck went into the Maple Leafs’ corner during the opening minute of the second period. Toronto’s Dion Phaneuf had nearly a half-zone lead on Gionta, but the Sabres right winger sped past the defenseman to reach the puck first.