- ESPN: Craig Custance reported yesterday that the Penguins have given permission to the Sabres to speak with Dan Bylsma.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: The Sabres will be talking to Bylsma, but GM Tim Murray wouldn’t confirm that they have permission or who else they are going to talk to.
“I just don’t feel like making the list public,” he said. “I’ve talked to one or two before Mike. I’ve talked to guys during and since and will continue to do so.”
Having NHL experience isn’t a prerequisite for the next Sabres coach.
“I’ve always been open-minded about coaches,” Murray said on WGR. “I have no preconceived notions that I want a veteran NHL guy or that I want a young guy to grow with young players. I’m looking for the best guy, the guy that comes in here and is a good fit.”
Murray also needs to hire an AHL head coach. His amateur scouting meetings end today. Murray wants to trade the 21st overall pick they acquired from the Islanders.
“I would like to move up from 21 to get a better prospect,” he said, “or I would put 21 in play for a young player on another team.”
- Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: Sabres coaching candidates.
Dan Bylsma – could also be a candidate for the Sharks.Luke Richardson – coaching the Senators AHL team.
Paul MacLean – was Babcock’s assistant in Detroit and coached the Senators for parts of four seasons.
Pete DeBoer – could also be a candidate for the Sharks.
Randy Cunneyworth – worked as a development coach with the Sabres this past season. Could also be a candidate for their AHL vacancy.
Guy Boucher – coached the Lightning and was in Switzerland this past season. Has talked to the Maple Leafs.
- Joe Yerdon: Don’t think that Pete DeBoer and John Tortorella would be good fits for where the Sabres are right now.