New coach takes charge behind bench

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - For the first time in 16 years, the Buffalo Sabres will have a new face behind the bench Thursday night, with Ron Rolston taking charge . This comes after the Sabres suddenly sacked long time head coach Lindy Ruff.

Ruff has been head coach since 1997, but the start of this shortened season has been rough, with just six wins and ten losses so far. Ruff signed a contract extension in 2011.

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

Buffalo Sabres General Manager Darcy Regier said, “First of all I think he'll get an opportunity, if he wants to, very quickly, and I think that people who have been fired, you have an opportunity to use it as a springboard.”

Ruff was in his 16th season as the Sabres Head Coach, a tenure that was tops in the NHL and second in all of major sports. 

Statement from Sabres owner Terry Pegula:

The hockey world knows how I and the entire Buffalo Sabres organization feel about Lindy Ruff not only as a coach but also as a person. His long tenure with the Sabres has ended. His qualities have made this decision very difficult. I personally want Lindy to know that he can consider me a friend always.

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

One time teammate Danny Gare shared his thoughts about Ruff and his future saying, “If I know one thing about Lindy, this is a set back day for him, he's a solid, strong individual with great intestinal fortitude, all of this I'm sure will be helpful down the road for him.”