"Any time you get off to a slow start is disappointing, even more so in a shortened season, " center and captain Jason Pominville said.

WSJ: Ruff takes blame for Sabres' sputtering start

"That gives me confidence that if he does get off to a slow start, that things are going to turn around because I've seen it time and time again, " Girardi said.

WSJ: CC Sabathia: The Yankees' Mr. Reliable