"This is a training camp on fast forward. It's the only direction Ruff wants to be looking," Mike Harrington writes.

Ruff and his new team wasted no time attacking Wednesday's practice. With a preseason game just three days away and a trip to Europe next week, the Sabres have to make the most of their time together.

Basic skills matter to Ruff. They should matter in the NHL. And if the Sabres are lax during a game, or lax in practice, they're going to hear about it.