AP -
Buffalo, NY

The
Buffalo Sabres have made a pair of call ups this week in hopes of providing a
spark. After a dismal start to the season the Sabres are finding themselves
right smack in a playoff battle. 

"Its
a Super tight race in the Eastern Conference" says GM Poulin.

Erik
Brannstrom has put up 1G and 3A for 4 Pts since his call up last week and has
provided some offensive punch to a 2nd pairing that has struggled though most
of the campaign thus far. 

"Erik
has provided a bit of a spark to our D group. He is matching his output from
the AHL and he should have himself a great rookie year." Adds Poulin

Not to be
forgotten was the call up of young netminder Jon Gilles. Gilles was struggling
in Rochester and with Buffalo needing from help give Delmas some rest the move
was made. Gillies has not disappointed thus far in his 4 games putting up a
2.25 GAA and a 0.918 Save %. 

"Its
early in his development, but we felt Jon would benefit from getting solid reps
at the pro level. He is our future in goal and he will get managed
appropriately."


There are
a few more hopefuls looking to make their pro debuts in Buffalo this season. Do
not be surprised to see the likes of Suzuki, and Katchouk up here at some
point.