The NHL offseason is well underway, offering a prime chance to evaluate each team’s prospect pool, with a focus on the Buffalo Sabres. It’s important to note that players who have lost their rookie eligibility are no longer considered prospects in this context.
In this series, Tony Ferrari reviews the strengths and weaknesses of each team’s prospects, highlighting their standout draft classes and potential NHL contenders.
The Sabres haven’t made the playoffs since the 2010-11 season, tying with the New York Jets for the longest playoff drought in North American professional sports. Despite consistent struggles, they have assembled a promising pool of prospects.
Konsta Helenius had a strong debut AHL season, excelling in both offense and defense. Although he may not be a top-line center, his ability to perform key matchups with high hockey IQ is notable. Increasing his game pace is a major focus for his development.
Noah Ostrand, known for his speed and intelligence, offers versatility as a center or winger but must prove he can handle the physicality of North American pro hockey.
Anton Wahlberg made an impact in his rookie AHL season and performed well in the Swedish World Junior Championship, showing size, speed, and relentless work ethic. He has potential as an NHL winger.
Isak Rosen has made the NHL roster and is an excellent offensive creator with a deceptive quick shot and the ability to make defenders miss with smooth speed.
Prokhor Poltapov impressed in the KHL with his skillful puck handling but needs to improve his skating.
On defense, the Sabres boast young talent with Owen Power already on the roster, alongside Rasmus Dahlin and Mattias Samuelsson. They also have solid defensive prospects in the system, including Owen Power and others like Maxim Strbak and Adam Clever, who contribute strong, steady defensive play without flashy styles.
Goaltender Devon Levi is the team’s top prospect despite being beyond Calder eligibility. He excels in the AHL but has yet to secure an NHL spot due to his size. The goalie pipeline also includes promising prospects such as Topias Leinonen, Scott Ratzlaff, and Ryerson Leenders.
Key under-23 players expected to play in the NHL this season include Zach Benson, Jiri Kulich, and Owen Power.
In the 2025 NHL Draft, the Sabres selected Radim Mrtka as their first-round pick, a defenseman known for a controlled game and some offensive creativity. Other picks focused on solid defensive players and goalies, emphasizing a safe and pragmatic draft approach.
Strengths of the Sabres’ prospect pool lie in their depth at center with players like Helenius, Ostrand, and Wahlberg showing NHL potential. The team’s defensive prospects and goaltending depth are also noteworthy. The main weakness lies in wing skill depth, though some centers may shift to wing roles to cover this.
Hidden gem Luke Osburn was highlighted as a smooth skating defenseman with good offensive and transitional play. Isaac Rosen is noted as a next breakout candidate with his quick release and playmaking skills.
The Sabres’ prospect pool is rich with potential NHL players across all positions, setting the stage for a stronger future after years of struggle.
Fan Take: For hockey fans, the Sabres’ deep and balanced prospect pool offers genuine hope for breaking their decade-long playoff drought. This analysis matters as it highlights how careful development and strategic drafting can rebuild a struggling franchise, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in the NHL.
