Buffalo, NY (WGR 550) -- The Sabres didn't have to make a decision today if Drew Stafford could practice or not because he signed a two year deal before hitting the ice. The winger will make $1.5 million this season and $2.3 million next year. Stafford was with the practice group today. He said, "I'm very excited to get a deal done. I was here yesterday skating and being with the guys and wasn't sure yet, but we were able to get it done and I couldn't be happier." Lindy Ruff added, "I think a lot of times a player gets caught in a bad spot. I think in his case he knew he had to be here and made a decision. Being in camp for a couple of weeks and being on pace with the other players is important. I think he realized that."
Stafford scored 20 goals in 79 games last season, but was very inconsistent in his play. It's something he's addressing this year, "I've come here with the mind set of trying to get better, trying to do what I can to contribute, work on my consistency most importantly and just wanting to be part of the solution."
Stafford is a player that is very hard on himself when things aren't going well. The question is, is he too hard on himself? He said, "Yes, I think so. That comes with maturing and growing up and developing. I'm going into my fourth year now and I've experienced a lot, it's very tough losing, I hate losing and this is the first time I've experienced missing the playoffs twice. It's just not a good feeling and I don't want to do it again"
If you take Stafford's career numbers and average them over 82 games he'd average 22 goals. You see glimpses that make you think he could be a consistent 30 goal scorer in this league. Ruff said, "You gotta get there first. We project a lot in our business. I think he can get there. I think there's still work to do, I think at times he looks like he can be that . He's at the point where and when that happens, he can become a lot better than he is right now."
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