Der Jaeger
Generational EBUG
There was almost no issue with zone transition vs Montreal or Florida. In fact, some of the best o-zone entries and chances were from defenseman themselves. It's entirely on the wings to get their act together.
Or have you not actually watched these games?
It's not about just the neutral zone or getting into the offensive zone. It takes the Sabres a Herculean effort to get out of their own zone. A lot. So the centers are deeper and so are the wingers. By the time they get out, they don't have momentum through the neutral zone, and the opposition defense is gathered.
Watch Carolina play and see how their top 4 defenders transition quickly from the defensive zone.
I've watched all but one game this season.