Sabres Edge Blog has reported that former Buffalo Sabres forward and member of the famed “French Connection” line, Rick Martin, has passed away this morning in Clarence.  Rick Martin, 59, died of a heart attack.  This is probably the saddest news this team could have received, especially considering new owner, Terry Pegula, looked poised to bring these amazing players back into the fold.  It was only a few weeks ago that the French Connection was reunited in a ceremony welcoming not only Mr. Pegula to Buffalo, but also welcoming Rene Robert back to Buffalo after a major fallout with the previous owners.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Mr. Martin.  Having met him on several occasions, I can truly say Mr. Martin was a wonderful person who was taken away far too soon.  RIP =(

(February 22, 2011 - Photo by Rick Stewart/Getty Images North America)