Ruff out after 16 years

Buffalo Sabres coach Lindy Ruff was fired on Wednesday after the team’s latest slow start to the season and amid growing criticism from the team’s fan base. The announcement was confirmed by Sabres spokesman Michael Gilbert. Ruff was relieved of his duties shortly after the team held a 90-minute practice, and a day after the Sabres were booed several times by their home fans during a 2-1 loss to the Winnipeg Jets. The Sabres (6-10-1) have gone 4-10-1 since opening the season with two wins. With a 571-432-162 record, Ruff was the team’s winningest coach. In his 16th season, Ruff was also the active leader among NHL coaches with the same team. Ron Rolston has been hired as interim coach for the remainder of the season. – Associated Press