On this week's edition of WBFO's Behind The Bench, Buffalo Sabres reporter Bill Hoppe talks about the team's return to action this week, splitting games in Columbus and Dallas. Could rookie forward Casey Mittelstadt be on the verge of a breakout? Also, the Sabres begin a rare seven-game homestand Friday night when they host the Chicago Blackhawks. Success over the two-week stretch is critical for the team's playoff aspirations.
You can read Bill Hoppe's work at his Buffalo Hockey Beat blog and at BuffaloNews.com. Follow him on Twitter at @BillHoppeNHL.