Buffalo News writers Lance Lysowski and Mike Harrington discuss the start of the Sabres' swing through Seattle and Western Canada — including Lindy Ruff's early wakeup call and practice session before their game against the Vancouver Canucks. 

Now comes an even tougher question: Will that "wake up and play focused" message resonate through their next games at Calgary and Edmonton?

Mike and Lance also discuss the strong play of Jiri Kulich since his move to center, the Sabres' good break in missing Connor McDavid, who's suspended for Saturday's game, and what lies between now and the NHL's break for the 4 Nations Face-Off.

The Buffalo News Ice Time Podcast is sponsored by Express Windows.

Full Ice Time episodes are now available to subscribers at buffalonews.com