Rob Ray & Derek Van Diest join; Surging Sabres, Pacific pillow fight, Playoff races

Dan and Shawn are joined by former Sabre and current broadcaster Rob Ray (12:07) to talk about the reasons why the Sabres have sustained their success this season and are in first place in the Atlantic Division, almost guaranteeing at this point that they will reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in 15 years. He touched on leadership and coaching, on the play of defenseman Rasmus Dahlin, the character in the room, goalie Alex Lyon having 20 wins and the impact forwards Ryan McLeod and Josh Doan have made since they arrived in Buffalo. NHL.com staff writer Derek Van Diest also joined the episode to talk about the Oilers (32:25). Van Diest specifically addressed Connor McDavid’s recent comments on the Pacific Division race (he called it a “pillow fight”) and if there is a frayed relationship between Edmonton’s captain and coach Kris Knoblauch. In addition, the guys dove into the playoff races in both conferences, offering their thoughts on the rise of the Nashville Predators, Columbus Blue Jackets and Ottawa Senators. The episode ends with a special tribute to and remembrance of Jessi Pierce.