McCabe, who was named AHL Rochester's co-Rookie of the Year the previous season, is in a tough four-man battle for a roster spot, reports The Buffalo News.

EDGE Analysis

As it stands, the former Wisconsin Badgers captain will have to battle AHL teammate Chad Ruhwedel, former Islander Matt Donovan and journeyman Bobby Sanguinetti for a spot on the Sabres' lineup. Though McCabe has looked excellent so far during development camp and the Prospects Challenge, the odds seem to be stacked against him. He's an excellent two-way player with a good wrist shot and a nose for the physical side of the game, but in all likelihood will begin the season in AHL Rochester. He's a future top-four defenseman for the Sabres, but that will be further down the road.