Aside from the mega-watt smile and engaging personality, the Justin Bailey of today bears almost no resemblance to the kid the Sabres drafted two years ago. He’s bigger, better, stronger and more confident.
In other words, the kid from Williamsville has become a man, one who is ready to start a career in hockey.
Bailey’s journey from Matthew Barnaby’s cradling arms to Pat LaFontaine’s house to raw Sabres prospect is about to transition to the next phase. After he and the Sabres close development camp Sunday, Bailey will prepare for his first NHL training camp as a professional.