Buffalo Sabres: Is Andrey Makarov's Anti-Russian Bias Claim Justified?

Andrey Makarov has said he won’t return to the Buffalo Sabres next season, due to unfair treatment and bias against Russians by Tim Murray, but is there any credence to the goaltender’s claim?

After finishing bottom of the standings for two straight campaigns, last season was a lot more fun for the Buffalo Sabres and their fans. However, not everyone is excited about the future in Western New York.

As reported by Russian sports writer Slava Malamud, Andrey Makarov has said he won’t be back with the Sabres organization next season. However, more interesting is the reasoning behind this decision.

Malamud goes on to explain that Makarov does not believe he has been fairly treated by the Sabres. In addition, the goaltender claims general manager Tim Murray is biased against Russian players.

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Certainly, the 23-year old is entitled to his opinion, but it’s tough to provide concrete evidence of such a claim of anti-Russian bias. Yes, the lack of Russians on the Buffalo and Rochester rosters is notable, along with Murray’s draft history with the team, but to offer this as proof is non-conclusive and furthermore, a dangerous game to play.

Instead, it’s better to concentrate on the first part of Makarov’s comments, in respect of being unfairly treated during his four seasons with the Sabres. In that time, he has made just one appearance in the NHL, during the 2014-15 campaign.

Despite losing 3-0 to the New York Islanders, the Kazan, Russian native made 33 saves. After the game, then-head coach Ted Nolan said he was impressed with the goalie, particularly noting how confident he looked.

However, Makarov has never been able to build on this or get another chance, despite arguably being the Americans best goaltender during last season. Along those lines, the frustration must have been compounded by Linus Ullmark being called up to play 20 games for the Sabres, despite posting poorer statistics across the board in the AHL, compared to his teammate.

Of course, no matter how important statistics are, they only tell part of the story when it comes to playing in goal. Indeed, certain hockey analysts have the 2013 Hap Emms Memorial Trophy winner ranked just fifth in the Sabres system.

Ultimately, maybe it’s best Makarov is moving on, especially when you factor in he says it’s depressing living in Buffalo. He’s a talented player and will get an opportunity somewhere, likely in the KHL.

Next: Does Rasmus Ristolainen deserve a long-term deal?

Is there any substance to what Makarov says about Murray? Or is it just a case of sour grapes? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Buffalo Sabres: Is Andrey Makarov’s Anti-Russian Bias Claim Justified?

By Paul Taylor | Jun 7, 2016

Andrey Makarov has said he won’t return to the Buffalo Sabres next season, due to unfair treatment and bias against Russians by Tim Murray, but is there any credence to the goaltender’s claim?