Thursday, Ott was finally introduced at First Niagara Center. Coincidentally, he'll wear number 9, the same number as Roy, the guy he was traded for.

The 29-year-old had 11 goals and 39 points last season in Dallas, but the Sabres were most interested in his toughness and grit, an area where the club has been sorely lacking in recent years and making an effort to improve.

"I want to obviously help make the team harder to play against, that's no secret. I try to play a hard game, and I think team toughness is your best toughness," Ott said.

"It's a hard game, it's a physical game. That's the brand he plays. He's a prototypical style of Buffalo player that will bring his tremendous work ethic and attitude with him," said head coach Lindy Ruff.