Buffalo Sabres: Anders Nilsson Ready to Step up in Goal
By Paul Taylor
After playing well during training camp and in his first two preseason games, Anders Nilsson looks ready to provide solid depth in goal for the Buffalo Sabres.
When the Buffalo Sabres initially acquired Anders Nilsson in July, it’s fair to say the reaction from fans was decidedly underwhelming. In particular, critics referred to Nilsson’s exceedingly average statistics and performances up to that point of his NHL career.
This was perfectly highlighted by last season’s numbers, as the 26-year old went 10-13-2 in net, with a .901 save percentage and a 3.12 GAA. In addition, hockey analysts pointed towards his tendency to sometimes over-commit or drop to the ice too quickly.
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Not that any of this dissuaded Sabres’ general manager Tim Murray, who seems to have a soft spot for large goaltenders. Certainly, Nilsson fits this criteria, standing at 6 ft 5 and 227 lbs.
Of course, you need to have more than this to stand any chance of succeeding in the NHL. In that respect, the Lulea, Sweden native is mobile and athletic, with the ability to intimidate opponents with his sheer size.
Perhaps the best way to describe Nilsson is as a talented but inconsistent goaltender. As such, he entered training camp with people wondering if he could live up to his potential.
While it’s still early days, the initial returns are promising, with the 2009 third round draft pick not allowing a goal during his 30 minutes of intrasquad scrimmage action. He has also looked good in game action, stopping 26 of 27 shots on his Sabres debut against Minnesota, and recording a 23-save shutout in a 1-0 shootout win over the Leafs last Thursday.
Overall, Nilsson has looked commanding between the pipes, something which he discussed with John Vogl of The Buffalo News, following the Leafs game: “You always want to make a good impression, but what it comes down to is helping your team win games.
“My job is to stop the puck. I’m trying to do that every time I come to the rink no matter if it’s practice, a scrimmage or an exhibition game.”
Showing signs of his maturity, the Swedish international isn’t taking anything for granted: “It’s still early on. I still feel I have some things I can be better on, but overall the guys in front of me have played two very good games.”
Regardless, Sabres’ coach Dan Bylsma is paying attention, as he told Vogl and the rest of the media: “He wants to prove he can be in the net and be a capable goaltender when he gets the opportunity.
“He’s had two opportunities to this point, and he’s been really good in both of them. It gives you a comfortable feeling when you see a guy like that be able to backstop your team.”
Robin Lehner is still first choice, but Nilsson will be prepared if called upon, helped by playing in two tight preseason affairs: “It helps you get in midseason shape – It’s always good to play a couple games and get that rust out before the season starts.”
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What’s your take on Nilsson’s performances so far this preseason? Do you see him providing solid backup in goal and what do you project for his career long-term? Let us know in the comments section below.