By CRAIG POTTER
The former Rochester Americans player answers questions on BCA lease, Brian Gionta’s status.
GREECE, N.Y. — Buffalo Sabres General Manager Jason Botterill spoke with the Rochester media on Tuesday afternoon during the Amerks 5th Annual Golf Tournament at Ridgemont Country Club.
When asked about how the negotiations were going between the Sabres and the City for the lease of the Blue Cross Arena, Botterill said, “It’s a situation where I have had a lot of discussions about that. It’s more from our business standpoint. From what I’ve heard it’s been positive.
“We certainly hope we can ratify that…it’s a great relationship, the relationship between Rochester and Buffalo. Having a winning environment down here in Rochester and also developing players for up in Buffalo. Hopefully it can get taken care of and be a locked up relationship here.”
Greece native Brian Gionta had been the Sabres captain the last 3 seasons of his contract, which ended at the end of last season. Gionta became an unrestricted free agent, but to date has not signed a contract with any team. He was the only Sabre to play all 82 games last season.
“We’ve talked to Brian throughout the summer,” Botterill said. “It’s a sceneario where right now we feel comfortable with some of our younger players. We want to give them some opportunities. We’ve definitely made some changes up front like bringing a player back like Jason Pomenville.
“We’re sort of comfortable with our group right now. We’ll see what materializes at the start of training camp.”
When asked about signing Jack Eichel, Batterill said, “Our discussions continue to be very positive. We certainly want to get Jack signed up for the maximum amount possible. He has the same belief.”
Botterill also added that the Sabres continue to add depth to the defensive corps.
Rochester Americans General Manager Randy Sexton said he hopes to build a team that Rochester will be proud of.
“What we’ve tried to do is take the very good young players that we’ve had and surround them with quality veterans to lighten the load and help them learn to what it means to be a professional and what it takes to play in the National Hockey League,” Sexton said. “Equally important is that those people are good human beings.
“We’re comfortable with the roster that we have. Like every other organization, we’re looking to get stronger. If we had to start the season today, we’re pleased at where we are.”
Amerks head coach Chris Taylor talked about winning games while developing talent.
“We want to be very competitive in this league,” Taylor said. “I think we’re getting closer every day with the signings that they’re signing.”