The author’s open letter to Sabers fans discusses valid points about the difficulties early in the season

You can put me in the “fire Kevin Adams” group if no one becomes the legitimate scorer this team needs. You can also put me in the “why can’t Terry Pegula fire himself” group if the Sabers continue to struggle.

It seems like Pat McMahon of the WBUF feels the same way, as he said in an open letter: “I understand. I’ve been there, but I’m not there yet. However, I reserve the right to get there at some point if things don’t improve. However, at the moment I am not disappointed with them.”

McMahon makes several valid arguments as to why he is on board, such as the recent coaching change. I agree 100 percent, as under Don Granato the Sabers are no longer the boring team that seemed afraid to outscore their opponents most of the time.

The same goes for McMahon’s comment about the schedule, as the New Jersey Devils appear to be light years ahead of everyone else and the Sabers have had to play them twice in as many days. Add to that two playoff teams from last season and a motivated Penguins squad whose star players were on the verge of making history, and no, luck isn’t on the Blue and Gold.

Sabers fans will have to read multiple takes before making a decision

It’s difficult for fans of any franchise to go 14 years without watching hockey beyond the 82-game schedule. So after nearly half a decade at the helm, it’s okay to come up short with Kevyn Adams. Last week I made it clear where I stand on the general manager, but I always enjoy reading articles or letters that offer counterarguments, like McMahon’s.

It shows us why we don’t need to be irrational just five games into the season, and we can even point to recent history as a reason to remain confident. Just look at the Edmonton Oilers last year and therefore this year too.

Despite bumps in the road, this team made it to the Western Conference Championship after a miserable first month of the season. Another rocky start to this season won’t deter Edmonton, and while they have a few more star players than the Sabers, that doesn’t mean the team or its fan base can’t take a lesson or two from them.

So I thank Pat McMahon for at least reassuring the fan base that despite the rocky start, the 2024-25 season is far from over.