Rolston runs first Sabres practice

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - One day after the firing of long-time Buffalo Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff, the Rochester Amerks coach is ready to take the reigns.

Ron Rolston says he's ready for game time. Rolston has already built a record in Rochester, where he spent two seasons leading the Amerks. Prior to that, he has coach at the college level and he coached the U.S. under 18 team. Thursday night, when the Buffalo Sabres play in Toronto, will be Rolston's first time coaching an NHL game.

Watch the full video from Wednesday's press conference below:

The 46-year-old coach led the team through a 40-minute skate hours before the game against the Toronto Leafs.

Rolston said, "Certainly here, my job is to jumpstart this team and to do it any way we can."

PHOTOS | Take a look back at Lindy Ruff through his 16 years as the Sabres head coach

Most of these players have met Roslton before in training camp. Some played for him on the Amerks, but it will still be an adjustment. Lindy Ruff is the only NHL coach most of the guys have ever played for. Ruff was the head coach for the Sabres for the last 16 years, and there's no question Rolston will have a much different approach.

"Probably be considered a little more analytical in approach and making sure the communication that needs to be going on right now in the organization and with the players how do we get there," Rolston said.