By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA After making a splash as a newcomer to the Buffalo Sabres organization last season, life on the ice has been much more trying for Arttu Ruotsalainen this season. The promise he showed in 2020-21 with the Sabres and Amerks – 5 goals and an assist in 17 NHL games, 5-8-13 in 13 AHL games – faded over time. As did his NHL ice time. As did his stay in … [Read more...] about Looking a lot like his old self, Ruotsalaien helps Amerks upend Hartford
Quinn a little rusty in return, Amerks a little off in loss to Crunch
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The Syracuse Crunch hadn’t played in 21 days due to postponements caused by COVID-19 protocols and the American Hockey League’s Christmas break. But you never would have known the Crunch had endured a three-week layoff based on the fast-paced, in-your-face game they played in defeating the Rochester Americans 2-1 on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, Amerks … [Read more...] about Quinn a little rusty in return, Amerks a little off in loss to Crunch
A day of roster zaniness didn’t deter Mersch and the Amerks
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA It may have been the craziest 36 hours in Rochester Americans franchise history in terms of player transactions. Five players recalled by the parent Buffalo Sabres. Four Amerks regulars sidelined by COVID-19 protocol. Four players signed to pro tryout contracts – except one couldn’t play because his COVID-19 rapid test taken before departure from … [Read more...] about A day of roster zaniness didn’t deter Mersch and the Amerks
Preaching a who’s-the-next hero mentality, resilient Amerks run winning streak to five
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The speed bumps – not to mention a road closed sign or two – certainly were in place to derail the streaking Rochester Americans this week. There was the pause in the season due to COVID-19 protocol that finally ended Wednesday after 11 days. Their head coach, Seth Appert, and defensive assistant coach, Mike Weber, were forced into virus-mandated … [Read more...] about Preaching a who’s-the-next hero mentality, resilient Amerks run winning streak to five
Rarely the shooter, Krebs lifts Amerks with overtime goal
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA They keep telling Peyton Krebs to shoot the puck, but the art of perfect pass seems to provide him with more satisfaction. “I’ve always been a pass-first guy,” he said, “even when I was young.” On Wednesday night, he finally listened to his coaches and teammates, and his bullet one-timer from the right circle during an overtime power play gave the … [Read more...] about Rarely the shooter, Krebs lifts Amerks with overtime goal