The Sabres need more physical play along the boards and down low, and I think Gaustad can bring that type of play coming back. I’d put Gaustad on a line with Drury and Zubrus and move Kotalik back to the 4th line with Mair and Connolly. Jagr’s line will have a hell of time working against Zubes and Pauly G.
And if Max were only playing half throttle and not giving the puck away so much, I wouldn’t even consider benching him. But I really think that he’s been hurting the team more than helping.