‘Throughout the years Thomas has been friends with many of the Sabres. “I’ve known a lot of them including guys like Pat Lafontaine, Dominik Hasek, Michael Peca and Dale Hawerchuk,” said Thomas, who was the NFL’s MVP in 1991 when he rushed for 1,407 yards, had 62 receptions for 631 yards and scored 12 touchdowns. “In fact, Dixon Ward was one of my best friends while I lived and played in Buffalo."’