Buffalo Sabres: Sam Reinhart Remains Confident Despite Lack of Goals
By Paul Taylor
Despite struggling to contribute points so far this season, Sam Reinhart continues to work hard in other areas for the Buffalo Sabres.
Heading into this season, the Buffalo Sabres and their fans anticipated big things from Sam Reinhart. This anticipation was understandable, after he announced his arrival on the NHL stage during the 2015-16 campaign.
After a slow start, which saw Reinhart score just two goals in the opening 15 games, he finished the season with 42 points in 79 overall appearances. He was particularly impressive during February and March, when he registered 10 goals and 10 assists, while helping the Sabres go 12-9-9.
Interestingly, the 21-year old is off to a similarly slow start again this season, at the offensive end of the ice. With just three goals and nine overall points in 20 games, people are wondering when he will step up his production.
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In fairness to Reinhart, it’s not as if he’s the only one struggling. At the time of writing, the Sabres have the fewest goal in the NHL this season and stand 15th in the Eastern Conference.
Part of the reason for this, is the staggering number of early-season injuries the team has suffered. Jack Eichel‘s absence stands out significantly, with Reinhart suffering more than most from not having the young center on the ice.
It’s no coincidence that the 2014 second overall draft pick’s production spiked last season, after Sabres’ coach Dan Bylsma decided to place him on the same line as Eichel. The two became regular linemates at the start of March, and they went on to combine for 29 points in 18 games.
With this in mind, Reinhart would love to see his teammate return to action as soon as possible. For now though, he will continue to deal with any criticism in a mature fashion.
Speaking to WGR550‘s Paul Hamilton, Reinhart said: “If other people out there are getting frustrated for me, that’s out of my control because I feel confident in my game right now and that’s all that matters to me.”
In fairness to the North Vancouver native, he’s still showing an excellent work ethic, which has been particularly effective on defense. In the recent 2-1 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, Bylsma made a point of praising the youngster on how well he competed against a certain Sidney Crosby.
Reinhart said: “I think if I’m close on that, everything else is going to fall into place eventually. I’m feeling confident in my game right now, I’m feeling my legs are moving, I’m feeling the compete level’s there.”
Overall, as frustrating as the start to the season has been, Sabres’ players, coaches and fans alike have to remain focused. Consider that they are only four points out of a playoff spot as of Friday, with their ridiculous casualty list gradually clearing up.
At the very least, you can count on Reinhart to keep the faith: “Everyone goes through spurts like this where it may not be going in, but I’m fine with it, I’m still doing a lot of good things out there.”
Next: When will Eichel return to action?
What’s your take on Reinhart’s contribution so far this season? Where has he excelled and what does he need to do to start contributing more goals? Share your thoughts in the comments section.