Maxim Strbak – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #15 Buffalo Sabres – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Fri, 01 May 2026 22:00:37 +0000

RALEIGH, NC - JANUARY 19: Center Konsta Helenius (94) of the Buffalo Sabres skates into the zone to follow the play during the NHL game between the Buffalo Sabres and the Carolina Hurricanes on January 19, 2026 at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Katherine Gawlik/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 15th (Last year - 18th)
GM: Jarmo Kekalainen Hired: December 2025
COACH: Lindy Ruff Hired: April 2024

The time is now in Buffalo. Following the mid-season dismissal of long-time general manager Kevyn Adams, the Sabres have found new life under Jarmo Kekäläinen. Since the change, the club has surged up the standings to finish atop the Atlantic Division and in the postseason for the first time since 2011. Regardless of where you stand with the Sabres, most will agree that the league is better when the Buffalo Sabres are competitive. And this year, we may finally get to see what that looks like after a 14-year absence.

In support of that push, the Sabres took an aggressive approach at the trade deadline, prioritizing immediate roster upgrades over long-term assets. The organization moved several 2026 draft picks and parted with young players, including Isak Rosen, in an effort to strengthen the NHL lineup. There was even a near-deal involving top prospect and 2025 first-round selection Radim Mrtka, though a declined trade from Colton Parayko ultimately kept him in Buffalo. Combined with Noah Östlund's graduation, those moves have kept the prospect pool in a more middle-of-the-pack standing.

The system is now led by Konsta Helenius, who has already seen NHL action, with Anton Wahlberg close behind as another forward expected to contribute in the near future. Finally ready for the next step, their core is what truly defines the organization’s trajectory. With players such as Jack Quinn (24), Zach Benson (20), Tage Thompson (27), Noah Östlund (22), Jiří Kulich (21), Bowen Byram (24), Owen Power (23), and Rasmus Dahlin (25), the Sabres possess one of the youngest and most dynamic groups in the league.

For Buffalo, the focus has clearly shifted from building for the future to capitalizing on the present — and for the first time in years, that approach appears to be paying off.

NHL	RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	2024-25 TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
Buf	1	Radim Mrtka	D	18	6-6/220	Seattle (WHL)	43	1	33	34	38
Buf	1	Radim Mrtka	D	18	6-6/220	Rochester (AHL)	8	0	1	1	7
Buf	2	Konsta Helenius	C	20	5-11/190	Rochester (AHL)	63	21	41	62	22
Buf	2	Konsta Helenius	C	20	5-11/190	Buffalo (NHL)	9	1	3	4	0
Buf	3	Anton Wahlberg	C	20	6-3/195	Rochester (AHL)	68	9	29	38	20
Buf	4	Vsevolod Komarov	D	22	6-2/182	Rochester (AHL)	55	4	7	11	60
Buf	5	Brodie Ziemer	RW	20	5-11/195	Minnesota (NCAA)	36	23	13	36	26
Buf	6	Adam Kleber	D	20	6-6/215	Minnesota Duluth (NCAA)	40	3	9	12	19
Buf	7	Luke Osburn	D	19	6-1/170	Wisconsin (NCAA)	33	6	15	21	18
Buf	8	Gavin McCarthy	D	20	6-2/195	Boston University (NCAA)	36	4	17	21	40
Buf	8	Gavin McCarthy	D	20	6-2/195	Rochester (AHL)	5	0	0	0	4
Buf	9	Nikita Novikov	D	22	6-4/198	Roc-Ont (AHL)	64	6	14	20	52
Buf	10	Maxim Strbak	D	21	6-2/205	Rochester (AHL)	2	0	1	1	0
Buf	11	Jake Richard	RW	21	6-1/170	Connecticut (NCAA)	38	10	17	27	42
Buf	12	Prokhor Poltapov	LW	23	6-0/176	CSKA Moskva (KHL)	68	16	24	40	28
Buf	13	Ryan Rucinski	C	19	5-10/175	Youngstown (USHL)	59	27	35	62	88
Buf	14	Melvin Novotny	LW	19	6-2/185	Muskegon (USHL)	48	22	35	57	26
Buf	15	Noah Laberge	D	19	6-1/185	Newfoundland (QMJHL)	62	7	49	56	41

Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL) (Rochester Americans, AHL)

After spending most of the Sabres training camp with the big club, Mrtka was assigned to their AHL affiliate, the Rochester Americans, playing in their first four games. He played mostly even strength, averaging about 17 minutes of ice time. After the four games with Rochester, Mrtka was reassigned to his WHL team, the Seattle Thunderbirds. Mrtka has been averaging about 26 minutes of ice time per game with Seattle, playing on both the power play and the penalty kill. Mrtka was also a standout for Czechia at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championships, where he helped the team win a silver medal. Mrtka’s game has been trending into that of a two-way defenceman. He likes to be involved in the offensive zone and will join the rush with regularity. His passing has continued to improve and he’s averaging almost an assist per game in the WHL this season. His defensive play is also trending in the right direction. He uses positioning, awareness, and reach to defend but isn’t afraid to be physical. He projects to be a top four NHL Defenceman currently.
Konsta Helenius, C, Rochester Americans (AHL)

There is a lot of young talent emerging in Buffalo’s system and Konsta Helenius is solidifying himself as one of the elites. Helenius has set a career-high in points, besting last year’s total in 25 fewer games. Nothing quite stands out like his sheer determination and effort to constantly be in and around loose puck battles. For a 5-foot-11 center, Helenius is tenacious on the puck and doesn’t give it up easily. He’s not the fastest, but he has a high motor, and when other players start to fade, Helenius is still going. On offence, he uses his edges to create separation and on the defensive end, it allows him to effectively shadow puck carriers. He’s a playmaker first, although he’s not afraid to unleash shots. Even though Helenius is a two-way center, he isn’t tasked with killing penalties. If he can develop into a reliable penalty killer, there will be little excuse to keep him in Rochester any longer. A top-six center is a reasonable projection, but his versatility may see Helenius play more on the wing and in a support role for now.
Anton Wahlberg, C, Rochester Americans (AHL)

With all of the high-profile prospects in Rochester, Anton Wahlberg often flies under the radar. Wahlberg is having a slightly better season than last year, although he is still hovering around the 0.5 point per game mark. His offence is built on using his frame to hold possession of the puck. He leverages his weight often by applying a lot of force and then dropping off defenders to get separation quickly. Wahlberg’s skating can be kind of clunky at times, which can limit the pace he plays at. When Wahlberg really gets going, he impacts the game heavily, but there are times when he can be floating around. Wahlberg played on the wing and down the middle at times for Rochester and has had success at both positions. If Rosen and Helenius are in Buffalo next season, Wahlberg will need to step up as a primary scorer for Rochester. Establishing an offensive identity will go a long way for Wahlberg. He projects as a middle six forward.
Vsevolod Komarov, D, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Vsevolod Komarov, in his second season, is projected to roughly equal his point totals from his rookie campaign. The increase in production hasn’t been there and a lot of that comes down to his consistency in creating offence. He’ll show flashes of joining the rush or starting it himself to enter the offensive zone. Komarov isn’t an outstanding passer, but he shows some deception in his puck movement that will make him a better one down the line. He’s a big, physical presence on the blue line and being a right-shot makes him a more valuable asset. There is a lot of blue-line depth in Buffalo right now, so there isn’t any need to rush his development to make him NHL-ready. The Sabres organization will afford him a lot of minutes in Rochester as he continues to grow his offence, so by the time they need him, he will be a seasoned pro. At the NHL level, Komarov can be a bottom four defenceman who provides secondary scoring.
Brodie Ziemer, RW, University of Minnesota (NCAA)

Ziemer’s offensive game has continued to grow since being selected in the third round by the Sabres in 2024. He was a very strong presence in all three zones in his draft year, who played hard and detailed at both ends of the ice. But his offence has improved over the last two seasons, and especially this season. After being under a point-per-game in the USHL in his draft year (0.89 points per game rate) to producing at 0.61 points per game in his first collegiate season. This year, however, he is up over a point per game with Minnesota. His goal-scoring has become a focal point, as his shots-on-goal rate has gone up significantly, from 2.3 shots on goal per game to 3.5 this year. But it isn’t just volumetric improvement, it’s how he is creating those shots. His shots from the slot went up from 2.19 per game in his first NCAA season to 3.08 this season. The way he generated offence was always off of his willingness to get to the dirty areas and get tips and finish rebounds. But this year, he’s been able to generate chances for himself as a shooter, while he has built on his already solid stickhandling and high-end motor to drive the net. He projects as a middle six forward option in the NHL, but his stock is absolutely rising.
Adam Kleber, D, University of Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA)

Kleber has always been known as a defensively stout, stay-at-home type. Offence has never been his focal point, staying more responsible and taking the simple play to keep pucks from being in his own end. Skating and that lack of upside offensively were the biggest hurdles towards making that jump to the NHL level. He’s improved steadily as a skater since joining the University of Minnesota-Duluth. His edges, more specifically, have improved noticeably. His pivots and change of direction abilities have improved, while his straight-line skating looks a bit quicker. He has also shown more of a willingness to be involved on breakouts and entries. That improvement is arguably the most important as it pertains to his path to an NHL role. He projects as more of a bottom-pair defender still, but that projection is a bit cleaner with his notable developments in college. His style and ability in his own end will be coveted by any coach who brings him on.
Luke Osburn, D, University of Wisconsin (NCAA)

Osburn is a two-way defender who has been on an upward trajectory since he was drafted. In his two USHL seasons, Osburn showed off his ability to defend against the rush and play physical in doing so. He also showcased his strong instincts when it came to puck-moving. It took him a full year in the USHL before his production reached a high level, going from 23 points in 60 games in his first season to 41 points in 55 games in his second year. He then went on to join the University of Wisconsin in the NCAA, where his offence has transitioned quite well, without losing his defensive efficiency. His puck-moving ability has cleanly translated to the NCAA as well, which is arguably the biggest positive in his development since being drafted. In fact, he leads the Badgers defenders in successful zone entries and is second amongst defencemen in successful breakouts. His ability to move the puck and consistent offensive production despite moving up a level is exactly what the Buffalo Sabres could have hoped for out of their defensive prospect. He looks like a potential puck-moving middle-pair defender who can pair up with most players and play whatever role is needed.
Gavin McCarthy, D, University of Boston (NCAA) (Currently with Rochester Americans, AHL)

McCarthy has always been known as more of a shut-down defender, who plays a physical brand of hockey that many NHL teams would love to have on their blueline. While his offence will likely never be a strong suit, he has seen his point pace grow with each NCAA season. In his first collegiate season with Boston University, he scored five points in 38 games. He followed that up the next year with 16 points in 39 games. Now, this season, he matched his previous season's point totals in eight less games. The Terriers captain still plays with that physical edge and is still a shut-down defender, but he clearly plays with more confidence in the offensive end. His decision-making looks faster than in prior years as well, which is an important detail in his development. He still projects as more of a bottom-pair defender, as he still doesn’t have much of a high ceiling. But he should be well-liked by his future coaches and could be an important depth piece who eats up the toughest minutes for an NHL team down the line.
Nikita Novikov, D, Rochester Americans (AHL)

In three seasons with Rochester, Nikita Novikov has not improved any aspect of his game significantly, with his production remaining largely the same since he came into the league. Coming into his third season with the Americans, you’d think Novikov would be pushing for at least a depth spot with Buffalo, but that just isn’t the case. A lot of the same issues still plague his game. He doesn’t have the speed to carry the puck effectively, he takes a lot of penalties and makes his fair share of misplays in his own end. He’s a featured penalty killer who does well in that role. It’s fair to say at this point the offensive side of his game won’t improve that much, but if Novikov can be relied upon in the defensive zone as a shutdown guy, you’re looking at a No. 6 or No. 7 NHL defenceman.
Maxim Strbak, D, Michigan State University (NCAA) (Currently with Rochester Americans, AHL)

While the offensive side of things hasn’t really come around at Michigan State, Strbak remains a promising stay at home defender thanks to his size, mobility, and strength down low. Strbak possesses excellent mobility and when you combine that with his physical effectiveness, you have a defender who can suffocate the top offensive players on the opposing team. He’s also a fierce competitor who blocks shots and finishes checks in puck pursuit. In his draft year, Strbak flashed offensive upside thanks to some creativity with the puck and the ability to combine that with his strong skating ability. He’s been a solid point producer for Slovakia internationally too. However, that part of his game just hasn’t blossomed at the NCAA level. He often opts to play a safer game, rarely leading the charge offensively out of his own zone, or taking liberties with the puck. A prime candidate to turn pro later this season, it will be interesting to see Strbak fit into the Sabres’ system. The hope has to be that he can become Buffalo’s version of Tampa’s Erik Cernak.
Jake Richard, RW, University of Connecticut (NCAA)

Richard hasn’t been able to replicate the offensive success of his breakout last year at UConn, but he’s still a solid middle six prospect who can make plays through traffic and protect the puck.
Prokhor Poltapov, LW, CSKA Moscow (KHL)

Poltapov continues to make progress in Russia, emerging as a quality offensive player in the KHL. He still has another year on his KHL deal, so don’t expect to see him in North America until 2027.
Ryan Rucinski, C, Youngstown Phantoms (USHL)

A late-round pick last year, Rucinski is a competitive, but skilled forward who has been one of the USHL’s top players this year. He’ll attend Ohio State next season.
Melvin Novotny, LW, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)

Like Rucinski, Novotny was also a late round pick last year who has been a standout in the USHL this season. The difference is that this is Novotny’s first year in North America. He’s committed to UMass for next season.
Noah Laberge, D, Newfoundland Regiments (QMJHL)

Laberge has steadily improved as a two-way defender over his three seasons in the QMJHL. Now he’ll head to Northeastern in hopes of continuing to improve his projection as a possible third pairing NHL defender.

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – BUFFALO SABRES – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #18

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 16:46:42 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 18th (May 2025 - 22nd)
GM: Kevyn Adams Hired: June 2020
COACH: Lindy Ruff Hired: April 2024

Despite having gone 14 consecutive seasons without a playoff berth, the Buffalo Sabres’ prospect pool lacks strong depth. It’s been a year since the Matthew Savoie trade, but his departure, coupled with several key graduations, has thinned the pipeline to a level not seen in Buffalo for some time.

The graduations of J.J. Peterka and Jiří Kulich to full-time NHL roles have been particularly impactful. What remains is a group of promising prospects, many paying their dues in the AHL. Konsta Helenius, Noah Östlund, and Anton Wahlberg all made the jump to North America this season to join Rochester, while Isak Rosen took a big step forward, leading the Americans in scoring with a career-high 55 points.

There’s still reason for optimism, though. This summer’s ninth overall pick, Radim Mrtka, adds yet another towering defensive piece to the mix. And at the NHL level, the core remains young and talented—Jack Quinn (23), Zach Benson (19), Tage Thompson (27), Bowen Byram (23), Owen Power (22), and Rasmus Dahlin (25) give Buffalo a foundation that few rebuilding teams can match.

With so much young talent already in place, the narrative of “nobody deserves it more” continues to grow louder in Western New York.

Buffalo Sabres Top-15 Prospects

1 - Radim Mrtka

The Sabres had already amassed a deep and diverse collection of young assets in recent years, yet they somehow still managed to add a uniquely new piece to the puzzle in the 2025 draft when they selected Mrtka. Defending has been more of a problem for the organization lately than scoring has, and their immediate outlook isn't any different, so the 6-foot-6 blueliner's services will be desperately needed in Buffalo as soon as he's ready. His game is all about efficiency and consistency, using his smarts, conditioning, enormous reach and abundance of strength to grind down or outright halt opposing scoring chances. There's also some genuine offensive pop to him as well, which might get to show itself more often once he's not playing upwards of 30 minutes per night, like he did both in the WHL with the Seattle Thunderbirds and internationally with his native Czechia. Mrtka is a player who gets results, even if it’s not always in the most entertaining of ways.

2 - Konsta Helenius

Helenius had a quietly respectable debut season in the AHL, holding his own as the only 18-year-old playing their full campaign in the league. He was ready to take on that rare challenge after playing professionally against men the two prior seasons in the Liiga in Finland. While his production as a rookie with Rochester might not jump off the page, it was quite impressive when factoring in the context of his age and that being his first season of hockey in North America. He is an exceptionally smart and tenacious forward who loves to push the pace of play and isn't afraid to battle in tough areas, even in spite of his smaller size. He gets a lot of puck touches with his anticipation and hustle and has quick-strike offensive ability. It's safe to project Helenius as a future NHLer in some capacity, which could be on a scoring line or in more of a support role.

3 - Noah Östlund

Östlund had a big breakout year in 2024-25, finding a whole new level to his game. Making matters even more impressive, he accomplished that in his very first season in North America. Surely the deep and talented collection of other Swedes playing with him on the AHL's Rochester Americans helped make that cross-Atlantic transition easier for him. Primarily a playmaker by nature, he has worked to round out his game and now has a stronger goal-scoring element as well. At the same time, though, he still has a lot of improving left to do when it comes to getting his strength and speed up to an NHL level, which was evident in the handful of games this year where he suited up for the Sabres. Östlund could be a pretty exciting talent once he has fully matured physically, and with Buffalo’s young depth they can afford to be patient with him.

4 - Isak Rosén

"Slow and steady" continues to be the mantra for Rosén as he works his way toward full-time NHL duty. 2024-25 was his fourth full season of hockey since being drafted and give him credit where it's due: he has gotten better year-over-year. While that's impressive in its own right, the flip side of the coin is that he has yet to truly cement himself as an NHLer in the same way that many other top players from his draft class already have. And unless he really blows people away in training camp and preseason, he's on track for another AHL-heavy season in 2025-26, which will be the last one where the Sabres can send him down there without taking the risk of him being plucked on waivers. He still has plenty of speed to burn, and you can't teach his finishing instincts. This will be a crucial year for determining whether or not those strengths will be enough to carry Rosén, or if he can add other elements to his game.

5 - Anton Wahlberg

Wahlberg doesn’t get nearly enough hype among Sabres prospects. There are just so many different things to like about him, starting with his useful blend of size, mobility and puck skill. He’s comfortable playing center and on the wing. He’s been a mainstay for Sweden internationally in recent junior-aged tournaments, picking up a collection of medals along the way. And if all of that isn’t enough, his roots give him an edge over most, with a father who was a longtime pro who then became a coach, and a twin brother who currently plays in the SHL. There were only a small handful of teenagers who played all of their 2024-25 seasons in the AHL, and Wahlberg did so while also producing the fourth-most points of that group. Will he ever become a true star in the NHL? Probably not. But you could bet money right now on him eventually making it to that level and becoming a valuable piece of a roster puzzle.

6 - Vsevolod Komarov

Is there anyone, single archetype of young player that NHL teams cover these days more so than big, mean, right-shot defenders who can contribute in all situations? Probably not. That's why it's so remarkable that the Sabres found Komarov, a prospect who fits that description quite well, all the way down in the fifth round of the 2022 draft. The Russian blueliner flourished under the tutelage of head coach Patrick Roy in Quebec City, winning one QMJHL championship with the Remparts in 2023 before getting traded to Drummondville and winning another the very next season with the Voltigeurs. He’s pretty bold and tough for a player his age, leading the Americans in penalty minutes this year, and if his time in junior is any indication there’s going to be more offence still to come for him at the professional levels. Don’t sleep on Komarov as someone who could become a mainstay in Buffalo sooner rather than later.

7 - Adam Kleber

Throughout last season, Kleber has shown steady growth as a shutdown-style defenceman. His physicality, defensive awareness, and commitment to playing a structured game have been consistent strengths. He effectively uses his size to win board battles, clear the net front, and maintain strong gap control. His penalty killing abilities are notable, demonstrating smart reads and an active stick. While his offensive contributions remain limited, his decision making under pressure has improved, particularly in breakout situations. However, skating remains a weakness, with below-average speed and agility, and his hands and puck skills need further development. Kleber’s progression suggests a solid foundation as a bottom-pairing, defence-first player at higher levels. Continued improvement in his skating mechanics and puck-handling will be essential for securing a professional contract. Averaging top four minutes as a freshman, his reliability in defensive roles is evident, making him a valuable asset for penalty kill situations and shutdown assignments on professional teams.

8 - Maxim Strbak

Maxim Strbak, a second-round pick by the Buffalo Sabres in 2023, made noticeable strides in his sophomore season at the NCAA level, particularly on offence. He jumped from nine to 19 points at Michigan State, as well as producing over a point per game at the World Juniors for the second straight tournament. With the puck, Strbak has some skill and can be creative, but his decision making can get him into trouble at times. Fortunately, the focal point of his game is how dependable he is on defence. Strbak is excellent at defending in his own zone, he’s competitive, positionally sound, and can play physically. If he continues to develop his decision-making and gains confidence handling the puck, Strbak could project as a well-rounded defenceman. At this stage, however, his NHL ceiling appears limited to a bottom-pair role. He’s heading back to Michigan State again this season.

9 - Brodie Ziemer

Ziemer showed notable progression last season, transitioning effectively to the college game. Early on, he established himself as a reliable presence on Minnesota's top six, excelling in puck support, forechecking, and backchecking. His ability to create space and generate offensive opportunities through effective puck handling and smart decision making was evident. As the season progressed, Ziemer demonstrated his adaptability by complementing highly skilled players, using his tenacity and awareness to contribute consistently. Strengths include his strong two-way play, puck management, and positional awareness. His determination in battles and willingness to go to the net make him a valuable asset. However, his skating and overall skill has been good enough to maintain top six minutes with the Gophers. Ziemer projects as a complementary middle six forward with special teams versatility, contributing in both offensive and defensive situations. With continued development in his skating, he has the potential to solidify this role at the professional level.

10 - Jake Richard

The big winger was a breakout star in 2024-25 emerging as one of the top offensive talents in the NCAA as a sophomore. Continued improvements to his skating/explosiveness have helped Richard unlock his potential and he’ll return to UConn for his junior team in hopes of contending for the Hobey Baker. Richard is at his best deep in the offensive zone; he’s in his office behind the opposing goal operating as a playmaker or at the net front trying to deposit second chances. His work rate in the offensive zone is excellent and he fights to earn his touches; his game is mature and should translate well to the pro game when he eventually makes that leap. It’s part of why he has dominated Sabres’ development camp the last few years. While Richard’s projection as a middle six piece hasn’t necessarily changed, the probability of him reaching that upside has improved dramatically.

11 - Nikita Novikov

After several seasons of KHL play, Novikov has put in two straight productive seasons on Rochester’s blueline (including a +28 this past season), which has the ideally sized defender looking ready to push for an NHL depth job. A jack of all trades type, he’ll need to prove that his positionally sound play in all three zones can temper a couple of mobility issues. As things are, Novikov will have to wait for trades or injuries to get a look.

12 - Prokhor Poltapov

A 2021 second rounder, the somewhat flamboyant Poltapov only just broke through as a true scorer in the KHL this past season, finishing second in scoring on his rather loaded CSKA team. It’s a good thing too as we finally saw considerable improvement in his decision making and use of his teammates, even if we’ve been excited about one day seeing his puck-protection and stickhandling skills on the smaller ice surface. That’ll wait as he has two more years on his KHL contract.

13 - Viktor Neuchev

A bit undersized and baby faced, Neuchev is entering the final year of his ELC and has already provided his fair share of dazzling entertainment to AHL audiences. With gradual all-round improvement since coming to North America, he was on pace for over 40 points this past season before undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery in March. Looking ready for camp, it’s about time for him to become more of a play-driving power play component in the AHL.

14 - Topias Leinonen

Leinonen got his prospects back on track with a strong rookie season in the Hockey Allsvenskan. Athletic without power, and technically sound at tracking the puck, it looks like the large goaltender is just some improved lower body strength away from staring at some form of NHL future. Without a doubt though, his statistically sound season full of starts for Mora was crucial to getting him back on the prospect map. Time for an encore this season.

15 - Tyson Kozak

Kozak is a notable depth player whose unimpressive stats certainly don’t tell his whole story. Average in size, he lives off of hard work and a motor that allows him to get around the ice well and offer strong support for his linemates. He’s coming off his best season to date in the AHL, even having snuck into 21 NHL contests in a lower line capacity, chipping in more than anyone expected. Will he have the opportunity for an encore?

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #22 BUFFALO SABRES – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Thu, 22 May 2025 18:59:20 +0000

CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 06: Rochester Americans center Konsta Helenius (91) shoots the puck during the first period of the American Hockey League game between the Rochester Americans and Cleveland Monsters on November 6, 2024, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire)

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Buffalo 25 Prospects

2025 WORLD JUNIORS: Team Latvia remains the feel-good story of the tournament

Kyle Watson — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 15:24:28 +0000

OTTAWA - It wasn't a day fans had marked on their calendar.

The prospect of watching the Germans and Latvians duke it out for a spot in the quarterfinal and Team Slovakia face lowly Kazakhstan did not entice many — neither match was well attended.

World Juniors enthusiasts who showed up or tuned in on TV were rewarded with arguably the most exciting day of action thus far.

Captain Dalibor Dvorsky scored twice and set up two more goals to give the Slovaks a 4-2 lead heading into the final frame of Monday's opening contest. In the game's dying minutes, Team Kazakhstan managed to score twice while killing a major penalty to force overtime.

Buffalo Sabres prospect Maxim Strbak played the saviour in overtime, slipping the puck through Vladimir Nikitin's five-hole on the breakaway and helping his team avoid total collapse:

SLOVAKIA HANGS ON!

Maxim Strbak scores in overtime to win 5-4 over Kazakhstan. #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/e9zO6ftAJd

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 30, 2024

The win clinched third spot in Group B for Team Slovakia, earning them a place in the quarterfinals for the third-straight tournament.

Latvia-Germany was even more hectic.

The Germans needed a win in regulation to have a chance of playing in the quarterfinals. With the game tied 2-2 with 2:51 remaining, their head coach Tobias Abstreiter decided to pull the goalie on an offensive zone draw to give his team a 6to 4 man advantage.

The move immediately backfired:

GERMANY PULLS THEIR GOALIE TO GO FOR THE WIN AND IT INSTANTLY BACKFIRES

3-2 LATIVA! #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/JoDUhhKK34

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 30, 2024

Just 20 seconds later, with Germany's net still vacant, 2025 NHL Draft prospect David Lewandowski's one-timer sailed over the shoulder of Linards Feldbergs to serve up the day's second helping of 3-on-3 sudden death.

Mateiko continues to lead the way for Latvia

Washington Capitals prospect Eriks Mateiko, who played shootout hero against Canada, showed off his lightning-quick release in overtime to give Team Latvia their third quarterfinals berth in four years:

LATVIA WINS IT IN OVERTIME

Who else but Eriks Mateiko, the OT hero! #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/UnukGxpWaz

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 30, 2024

The 6-foot-4, 201-pound forward has spearheaded the Latvian attack at the World Juniors: he possesses an impressive blend of skill and snarl that's emblematic of his team's approach.

There won't be enough ice in all of Ottawa to meet the needs of this Latvian team by the time the World Juniors are over, because of all the bruises caused by all these blocked shots

Those kids are hurting, but they wouldn't have it any other way: they're on to the quarterfinals

— Derek Neumeier (@Derek_N_NHL) December 30, 2024

When the Germans took a 2-0 lead midway through the second period, Mateiko rallied his team together by scoring under a minute later.

All goaltender Linus Viellard could do was pray it hit him:

LATVIA RESPONDS!

Eriks Mateiko responds 32 seconds after Germany's second goal to make it 2-1. WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/RiQ2EVzceQ

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 30, 2024

"We found a way," said Mateiko, after the game. "That probably wasn't our best game; Germany played well."

"But it's really fun to win in this tournament, I can tell you that!" he added with a smile.

It was a milestone victory for the nation: the only time they've ever won two games in the round-robin.

"It's really big for Latvia," said Linards Feldbergs.

"We are a small country, but we can do big things like we did today and [the] game against Canada."

Dvorsky, Pecarcik star as Slovakia survives late scare

On day two, we discussed how Slovakia needed more from Dalibor Dvosrky in his fourth World Juniors appearance. Yesterday's contest was the first time in the tournament he displayed the talent that convinced the St. Louis Blues to select him 10th overall in 2023.

Dvorsky is a terrific finisher, particularly in the thick of traffic in front of the net. He scored twice down low before dropping jaws with his setup for linemate Juraj Pekarcik:

Just before time expires in the 1st period, Slovakia makes it 3-0! #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/GejwISETT6

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 30, 2024

Providing another helper for Pekarcik to make it 4-1 before the Kazakhstani comeback, Dvorsky finished with two goals and two assists.

Pekarcik, who plays for Moncton in the QMJHL, was also drafted by the Blues in 2023: 76th overall. The 19-year-old was named player of the game with an identical stat line of two goals and two assists.

This is the second tournament in which the St. Louis prospects have been deployed on a line together: their chemistry could prove pivotal for the team's success. Slovakia will take on the winner of today's matchup between Switzerland and Kazakhstan in the quarterfinals, with the loser facing Germany in the relegation round.

Parting notes

Truly one of the craziest finishes to a group in recent history:

So, for WJ's tomorrow:

-winner of wins Group A

-if that game goes to OT, will finish no lower than 2nd

-if goes to OT, will finish no lower than 2nd

-but if loses in regulation, and or wins in regulation, will finish 3rd and play the loser of …

— James Duthie (@tsnjamesduthie) December 31, 2024

16-year-old forward Olivers Murnieks (Sioux City, USHL) had his best game of the tournament. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect set up the Latvians' first two goals before scoring an empty netter. He was a plus-three with three shots on goal.
Julius Sumpf (Moncton, QMJHL) continues to set the pace for Team Germany: the 19-year-old had two assists yesterday, taking his tournament totals to one goal and four points
There is currently a four-way tie for the top scorer in the event: Hradec Vojtech (Mladá Boleslav, Czech Extraliga), Axel Sandin-Pelikka (Skellefteå, SHL), Jakub Stancl (Kelowna, WHL), and Dalibor Dvorsky (Springfield, AHL) each have seven points
Only two goaltenders have played 100% of their team's minutes in the tournament so far: Latvia's Linards Felbergs (Sherbrooke, QMJHL) and Finland's Petteri "Showtime" Rimpinen (Kiekko-Espoo, Liiga).

2025 WORLD JUNIORS: Team Preview – Team Slovakia

Matej Deraj — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 14:00:54 +0000

Slovakia had a strong team last year, featuring eleven drafted players, including three first-rounders: Dalibor Dvorský, Samuel Honzek, and Filip Mešár. Despite their potential, their medal ambitions fell short after a quarterfinal overtime loss to Finland. This year, Ivan Feneš’ squad is aiming for redemption, but advancing past the quarterfinals could be a serious challenge.

Slovakia’s top player is undoubtedly the returning Dalibor Dvorský. The Blues prospect (#10 in the 2023 NHL Draft) is having an excellent season with the Springfield Thunderbirds in the AHL, where he is one of the team’s best players. His first NHL call-up seems imminent, but first, he will take part in his fifth (!) World Juniors, counting the cancelled 2022 tournament that was rescheduled and played again later in the summer.

The 2005 Slovak birth year group lacks the star power of the previous year but still boasts valuable experience, with key returnees like Dvorský, defenseman Maxim Štrbák or forward Juraj Pekarčík. Younger draft-eligible players, such as forwards Tomáš Pobežal and Ján Chovan, or a puck-moving defenceman Luka Radivojevič, who already made his WJC debut last year, add fresh talent and energy to the roster.

Slovakia will compete in a group with Sweden, Czechia, Switzerland, and Kazakhstan. A top-two finish in the group would definitely improve their chances of reaching the semifinals. While Slovakia hasn’t advanced to the final four at the U20 level since winning bronze in 2015, they’ve had recent success at the U18 level, finishing 4th in both 2023 and 2024. Many players from those U18 squads are on the current roster, bringing valuable experience to the World Juniors stage.

Ultimately, Slovakia’s medal hopes rest heavily on Dvorský’s performance. If he delivers a standout tournament and receives strong secondary scoring support from the rest of the forwards, as well as reliable goaltending, Slovakia could make a surprising run to the final four. The team’s depth, talent, and defensive structure are strengths, but a true No. 1 goalie will be crucial. The round-robin game against Czechia could be a good test of which team is better positioned to contend for a medal.

Key Players

Dalibor Dvorský, C

Dvorský is one of the best players of the whole tournament and he should be the undisputed leader of the Slovak team. He's having a great season in the AHL and Slovakia will definitely benefit from having him on the roster. Dvorský is a talented shooter who can really rip the puck, he has great offensive skills and plays a decent two-way game as a centre. He's playing at his 5^th World Juniors (including the cancelled 2022 tournament), but it hasn't always been sure if the Blues let him go. Thankfully for Slovakia, he will appear in Ottawa to help his team have a successful tournament.

Maxim Štrbák, D

Štrbák is also going to play at his 5^th U20 tournament, which has never happened before. The Sabres prospect was already a true #1 defenceman for Slovakia last year due to Šimon Nemec´s absence and is looking forward to reprising that role this year. Štrbák is a two-way defenceman with a solid frame and compete level who defends well. He does have some offence to his game, which is evident when playing for Team Slovakia, but he's not a typical powerplay quarterback and will likely give up that position to Luka Radivojevič. Štrbák should, however, play the most minutes on the team.

Juraj Pekarčík, LW/RW

Pekarčík is a 3^rd round pick from the 2023 draft, he was selected by the same team as Dvorský (the Blues). He's the expected linemate of the Slovak star as they played together at the U18 World Championship and did extremely well. Pekarčík is a great playmaker, he´s mobile and has a decent size. He works hard and goes to the net. His play makes him a great complementary winger. He should be able to help with scoring points and playing a lot of minutes.

Luka Radivojevič, D

Radivojevič stunned the world at the last U20 tournament, where he dressed for Slovakia as a 16-year-old and didn't look out of pace at all. He even scored his first goal and got some looks on the powerplay. A year later, Radivojevič should be the PP1 quarterback and get the offensive zone starts. He is a smaller defenceman with great mobility and offensive creativity, he uses his stick well and likes to play with the puck on his stick. Radivojevič had previously been hyped to be selected in the teens of the upcoming draft, which might not be the case anymore, due to his early season struggles. However, should he play a great tournament, his stock would likely go up.

Tomáš Pobežal, C/W

Pobežal is an exciting young forward, he missed last year´s tournament due to injury, but he's ready for his first World Juniors appearance now. Pobežal is having a great draft year in Slovak top-tier league, scoring twelve goals in twenty-six games. The scoring pace is unusual for a first-year draft-eligible player in a challenging pro league; only Marián Hossa and Marián Gáborík managed to score more goals in their DY. Pobežal is a versatile forward with a high compete level who's always trying to be engaged, either in creating chances and getting to dangerous spots in offence, or finishing checks and taunting opponents to get under their skin. An exciting player to watch.

Samuel Urban, G

The athletic goalie went undrafted for two years, not even a great performance at the U18 World Championship could help him to get selected. Urban played a huge role in Slovakia´s success at that tournament and now he'll need to be on top of his game again to help his team achieve a successful result. Urban is the projected starter; he's played a ton of games in the USHL and has always been a reliable option for this Slovak group at the international level. He´s a bit smaller (6´1”), but an extremely athletic goalie who has the tools to bring a great performance.

Adam Cedzo, RW

Cedzo was the third guy on the elite Slovak line which helped the team tremendously to reach the semifinals at the 2023 U18 World Championship. He is a skilled forward with silky hands but a strong wrister, making him a huge powerplay threat to give Slovakia another option other than just passing to Dvorský all the time. Cedzo has played in a second-tier Czech league for the past two years. He’s a smaller forward, but competes hard and helps his team to win.

Jakub Chromiak, D

Chromiak had struggled for the past two years in the OHL, but he's been having a much better season this year with the Kitchener Rangers. He is a two-way defenceman who has always shown his offensive abilities but wasn't able to progress as much as expected. He should be an important defenceman for Slovakia, if they are able to fit him on a power play, it should be even better. Chromiak has a decent shot and other offensive qualities, such as vision and passing.

Samuel Barcík, D

Barcík has been a pleasant surprise in the Slovak top-tier league, playing well on one of the best teams in the league and even running a powerplay at some point. He's more of a defensive defenceman; he's strong, uses his body well and throws hits. He does have a booming shot and some offence to his game as well. Barcík has been a member of the Slovak junior teams in the past, but he's going to play at his first World Juniors.

Daniel Jenčko, LW/C

Jenčko has been playing well in the NCAA at UMass, scoring seven points in nine games as a freshman in college. He spent two years in Sweden prior to moving to the US, first to the USHL and now he's in the NCAA. He´s a speedy forward with a decent playmaking game and vision. Jenčko has some two-way qualities to his game as well, although he's been playing more at the wing. He should be able to provide some secondary scoring.

Sleeper Player

Ján Chovan, RW/C

Chovan is an intriguing player for the 2025 NHL Draft. He´s big, strong and extremely well-rounded – able to play centre and wing, on the power play and penalty kill, boasting decent two-way skills. There are not many exciting draft eligibles playing in Finland this year, but Chovan is definitely among them. He's one of the youngest players on the Slovak squad and the draft eligibles tend to have a longer adjusting period, especially to the pace, at their first World Juniors. However, this is a great opportunity for Chovan to show his game at a bigger stage and display his skill.

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – BUFFALO SABRES – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #12

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Josh Bell — Sun, 22 Sep 2024 13:00:37 +0000

_{PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 28:Buffalo Sabres center Jiri Kulich (20) skates with the puck during the second period in the NHL preseason game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Buffalo Sabres on September 28, 2023, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)}

Prospect System Ranking – 12th (Previous Rank - 2nd)
GM: Kevyn Adams Hired: June 2020
COACH: Lindy Ruff Hired: April 2024

Trading away McKeen’s 39th-ranked prospect, Matthew Savoie, has left a dent in the Sabres' prospect rankings, causing their fall from second to eighth, and now to 12th. However, at some point, the focus must shift from stockpiling prospects to winning games and making a push for the playoffs. Even with Savoie out of the picture, Buffalo still boasts seven players within our McKeen’s top 150, including two prospects ranked in the top 35. Most of their top prospects are close to home, developing with the Rochester Americans in the AHL while sitting just a rock's throw away of NHL deployment.

Leading the pack is forward Jiri Kulich (33rd), who appears closest to earning a promotion to the NHL. Since transitioning from Czechia two seasons ago, Kulich has been a consistent producer, racking up 91 points across 119 games, good for a 0.76 point-per-game pace. Isak Rosén (116th), Buffalo’s 2021 first rounder, is right behind him with 87 points over roughly the same span of games. Swedish sensations Noah Östlund (93rd) and Anton Wahlberg (110th) have also been tracking nicely in the SHL and have crossed the pond. Meanwhile, Konsta Helenius (51st), Buffalo’s latest first-round pick, is expected to join the North American ranks.

Buffalo’s prospect pool complements an already youthful NHL roster featuring Jack Quinn (22), Dylan Cozens (23), Zach Benson (19), J.J. Peterka (22), Tage Thompson (26), Bowen Byram (23), Owen Power (21), and Rasmus Dahlin (24).

The situation between the pipes is especially interesting. With Devon Levi, McKeen’s 21st-ranked prospect, waiting in the wings, Buffalo recently signed 25-year-old Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen to a new five-year extension. While this solidifies Buffalo’s goaltending depth, it raises questions about how the goalie hierarchy will shake out.

After 13 years without playoff hockey, Buffalo’s rebuild has come to a critical juncture. With an incredibly talented core and a strong prospect pool, it’s only a matter of time before this team is ready to surge back into postseason contention.

Buffalo Sabres Top-15 Prospects

1. Devon Levi

Devon Levi's meteoric rise through the NCAA ranks had scouts raving about his potential as a future NHL star. The buzz stemmed from his remarkable calmness in net, his ability to make highlight-reel saves with a feline grace, and his knack for stealing games for his team. Levi's arrival in the NHL hasn't quite been the seamless transition many expected. While the raw talent is undeniable, there's a sense that the pro game's quicker pace and tighter margins have exposed some weaknesses in his game. His save percentages haven't reached the heights he achieved in college, and there have been moments where his positioning seems a touch off. The key is to remain patient. Adjusting to the NHL is a challenge for any goalie, and Levi's underlying numbers suggest there's still plenty to be optimistic about. He has the tools to be a difference-maker at this level, but it might take some time for him to fully adjust and find his rhythm.

2. Jiri Kulich

Jiri Kulich isn't the biggest forward on the ice, but he plays with a heart that belies his frame. He boasts a powerful skating stride that translates to dangerous rushes and the ability to create separation in tight spaces. Don't be fooled by his speed – Kulich isn't afraid to mix it up in the dirty areas. He battles for pucks along the boards with a willingness to go to the net to create scoring chances. But his true calling card is his offensive arsenal. He possesses a wicked wrist shot with a deceptive release, making him a constant threat from the perimeter. He's not a one-trick pony, though. Kulich displays slick hands and a knack for finding open ice in scoring areas. His hockey IQ shines in his ability to anticipate plays and make smart decisions. While all that is enticing, there's room for improvement in his overall strength. Consistency can also be a concern. If he addresses those issues, Kulich has top six forward potential with a knack for scoring goals.

3. Konsta Helenius

Konsta Helenius is a highly intelligent and skilled player, drawing comparisons to Lucas Raymond in his draft year due to their similar style, size, and smart play. Known for his results-oriented approach, Helenius consistently performed at a high level, finishing fifth in Liiga scoring among players 20 or younger, despite not being affiliated with an NHL team. He also represented Finland at the WJC, U18 Worlds, and the men’s world championships, where he made a strong impression as the youngest player ever to suit up for Team Finland. Helenius’s puck control, passing, and ability to navigate through traffic make him a formidable offensive threat. Although he needs to add strength, his skillset and maturity suggest he’ll be a valuable NHL asset soon. Helenius is seen as a player who could make a swift impact at the NHL level, potentially even faster than Raymond.

4. Noah Ostlund

Don't be fooled by his size – Noah Ostlund conducts the offence like a seasoned veteran. The Swedish center boasts a smooth skating stride and elite puckhandling ability, weaving through defenders with a magician's touch. His vision on the ice is a thing of beauty, threading needlepoint passes to spring linemates for breakaways. While not a prolific scorer himself, Ostlund elevates the play of everyone around him, a true playmaking maestro. Questions linger about his finishing touch. Despite flashes of a deceptive shot, consistency in finding the net remains a work in progress. Adding some physicality to his frame wouldn't hurt either, allowing him to battle harder in the trenches and win those board battles. Despite these areas for improvement, Ostlund's potential as a top six center with elite playmaking skills is undeniable. If he can add some scoring punch and a bit of grit, he could become a difference-maker at the NHL level.

5. Anton Wahlberg

After a limited stint with the Malmö Redhawks in the SHL, where he put up 10 points in 43 games, Wahlberg found his footing in the AHL with the Rochester Americans. In nine games with the Americans, Wahlberg notched one goal and three assists for four points. While the point totals aren't eye-popping, it's important to remember Wahlberg is a young player (just 18 years old) adjusting to the pro game. The small sample size in the AHL makes it difficult to draw major conclusions, but the fact that he was able to produce at all is a positive sign. Those familiar with Wahlberg's scouting reports will likely point to his hockey IQ and playmaking ability as his biggest strengths. While his offensive upside remains to be seen, his performance in the AHL suggests he can be a productive player at that level. Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how the Sabres decide to utilize him. Another year in the AHL could be in the cards.

6. Isak Rosen

Isak Rosen wasn't expected to light up the scoresheet in his second AHL season, but the young Swede did just that. After a decent rookie campaign, Rosen exploded offensively in 2023-24, putting up a respectable 50 points (20 goals, 30 assists) in 67 games for the Rochester Americans. His improved playmaking ability was particularly noteworthy, suggesting a well-rounded offensive skillset emerging. Questions linger, however. While he can create scoring chances, his finishing touch remains a work in progress. Consistency was also an issue – stretches of dominance were occasionally punctuated by quiet periods. Did Rosen finally earn his NHL call-up many predicted last season? The answer is a tantalizing ‘almost.’ He saw limited action with the Sabres, failing to register a point. His development in 2023-24 was a positive step, but the jury's still out on his NHL readiness. Can he refine his finishing and translate his AHL success to the big leagues? This season will be crucial in determining if Rosen becomes a reliable NHL contributor or remains a top AHL producer.

7. Vsevolod Komarov

Drafted 134th overall in 2022, the Sabres saw something in the 6-foot-3, 187-pound Vsevolod Komarov. The defender was coming off his first season in the QMJHL and while he had modest production, Buffalo believed in him. That appeared to be the right choice as the defenceman led all QMJHL defenders in assists (55) and points (69) this past season, earning him the Emile-Bouchard Trophy as the top defender in the league. The Russian defender has steadily improved since coming to North America, showing off creativity at the blue line, an ability to draw defenders in, and the knack for finding his open teammates. He’s not afraid to fire a shot himself either. Defensively, he utilizes his size very well, using his strength to muscle people off pucks and his reach to knock pucks away and get in the passing lanes. While there was some question about his upside and potential, Komarov is looking more and more like an NHL player.

8. Adam Kleber

Kleber is a towering right-shot defender who showed remarkable growth throughout last season. After struggling in the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup and having a slow start in the USHL with Lincoln, he gradually gained confidence and improved his impact on both ends of the ice. A key factor in his development was the significant improvement in his skating, which became noticeably more powerful and fluid as the season progressed—a rare mid-season transformation that highlights his dedication and hard work. Defensively, Kleber became more effective at handling faster opponents, thanks to his improved mobility and impressive reach. Offensively, he began to take more risks as a puck mover, showing a newfound aggressiveness that hints at a higher upside. While he may never reach Cale Makar's level, his evolving confidence with the puck could push him beyond the role of a physical, stay-at-home defender. An NHL team would be wise to let him develop further at Minnesota-Duluth, allowing him to refine his puck skills and build confidence before turning pro.

9. Maxim Strbak

Drafted 45th overall by Buffalo, Maxim Strbak's freshman year at Michigan State was a solid, if unspectacular, debut. Known for his strong defensive positioning and ability to clear the crease, Strbak solidified himself as a reliable presence on the Spartans' blue line. While his offensive contributions were limited (two goals, nine points in 32 games), his defensive awareness and strong work ethic were valuable assets for the team. His skating remains a work in progress, particularly his top speed. This could limit his offensive upside at the NHL level. However, his ability to shut down plays, and make smart decisions with the puck, suggests he can carve out a niche as a dependable two-way defenceman. His development in the coming years will be crucial in determining whether he can become a top four option for the Sabres.

10. Viktor Neuchev

Viktor Neuchev is a tantalizing prospect with a rare blend of speed, skill, and creativity. At 6-foot-3 and 190 pounds, he has the frame to play a power-forward role at the NHL level. Neuchev possesses a heavy shot that he can unleash with a quick release. He’s also surprisingly nimble for his size, showing good edgework and acceleration. The Russian winger boasts elite-level quickness, able to separate from defenders with ease and generate high-danger scoring chances. His vision and anticipation are equally impressive, consistently identifying soft spots in coverage and delivering precision passes to exploit them. While Neuchev must continue to develop his physicality and defensive awareness, his upside is significant. With continued growth, he could become a dynamic, top six forward and a key contributor on the power play. Neuchev's ceiling is high, and he's an exciting addition to the Sabres' prospect pipeline.

11. Aleksandr Kisakov

Aleksandr Kisakov is a dynamic offensive talent with high-end skating, agility, and edge work, enabling him to navigate through defenders and create scoring chances. His vision, anticipation, and quick release shot make him a constant threat. While he excels offensively and isn't afraid to battle along the boards, his defensive awareness needs improvement. With continued development, Kisakov has the potential to be a top six forward for the Sabres.

12. Brodie Ziemer

Brodie Ziemer may not always stand out during games with his average height and speed, but his intelligence and skill set make him a key player. As a former captain of Team USA at the U18 Worlds, he excels in tight spaces with excellent hands around the net, delivering subtle tips and strong support. Ziemer’s contributions go beyond offence; he's reliable on the penalty kill, blocks shots, and does the little things right. His deceptive strength and all-for-the-team mentality make him a valuable, Zach Hyman-like prospect.

13. Nikita Novikov

After being drafted back in 2021, 188th overall, Nikita Novikov finally made the jump overseas in 2023-24, dressing for the AHL’s Rochester Americans. The two-way defender showed off impressive abilities in his own end, using his long reach and strong positioning to shut down opponents. He also took strides forward in the offensive zone, showing improved confidence and assertiveness. He’s on track to a bottom-four role in the NHL in the near future.

14. Prokhor Poltapov

Before hearing his name called 33rd overall in 2021, Prokhor Poltapov looked like one of the most skilled players in the NHL Draft. Since then, he’s made the jump to the KHL where he’s struggled to translate his offensive talent. His decision-making and use of his teammates need improvement, but there’s no questioning the skill he brings. He’s going to need to work out how to adapt his game now that he’s playing against strong opponents.

15. Viljami Marjala

Viljami Marjala has been developing very well since being drafted back in 2021, going from the QMJHL to the U20 SM-sarja to the Liiga full-time in 2023-24. He impressed with 40 points in 60 games, showing off his deceptiveness and unpredictability as he navigated defences. Expect him to take another step forward in the Liiga this season before coming back to North America.

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #2 Buffalo Sabres – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Josh Bell — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 11:48:29 +0000

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 28:Buffalo Sabres center Jiri Kulich (20) skates with the puck during the second period in the NHL preseason game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Buffalo Sabres on September 28, 2023, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)

There is genuine excitement building in Buffalo. It has one of the best young cores in the NHL, built around draftees Rasmus Dahlin, Owen Power, Jack Quinn, John-Jason Peterka, Dylan Cozens, Zach Benson, and Devon Levi. There’s also Peyton Krebs, acquired in the Jack Eichel trade, and Bowen Byram, acquired in a swap for Casey Mittelstadt. At the 2023 NHL Draft, the team added Benson 13th overall who made the immediate jump to the NHL. The fact that this team still has Matthew Savoie (10th ranked prospect by McKeen’s), Jiri Kulich (22nd), Noah Ostlund (72nd), and Isak Rosen (93rd) and still rank this highly in organizational depth is a testament to their scouts and development team.

General manager Kevyn Adams took over in June 2020, right before the draft, and has drawn good reviews as a steady hand. He was proactive in signing his two franchise centerman Tage Thompson (25 years old) and Dylan Cozens (22) to long-term deals at a reasonable AAV of $7.1 million that will benefit the team for years, followed up by locking down his two core defenders in Owen Power (seven years, $8.35 million) and Rasmus Dahlin (eight years, $11 million). His biggest trade was moving Jack Eichel for a first and a second, hometown hero Alex Tuch, who is thriving, along with the former 17th overall pick, Peyton Krebs. Adams brought in a lot of futures and changed the culture seemingly overnight in a high-pressure transaction. Eichel has gone on to thrive in Vegas, but the pieces Adams extracted are already fixtures in the line-up and Ostlund is a promising prospect. The Sabres will be competitive as soon as next season and will only get better as this group hits their prime. A reward to Buffalo fans who have been waiting 13 years for a playoff appearance and have seen their share of dysfunction.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Matthew Savoie	C	20	5-9/179	Wen-MJ (WHL)	`22(9th)	34	30	41	71	10
2	Devon Levi	G	21	6-0/192	Rochester (AHL)	T(Fla-7/21)	26	16	6	2.42	0.927
3	Jiri Kulich	C	20	6-1/186	Rochester (AHL)	`22(28th)	57	27	18	45	26
4	Noah Ostlund	C	20	5-11/163	Vaxjo Lakers (SHL)	`22(16th)	38	12	11	23	4
5	Anton Wahlberg	C	18	6-3/194	Malmo (SHL)	`23(39th)	43	5	5	10	4
6	Isak Rosen	RW	21	6-0/175	Rochester (AHL)	`21(14th)	67	20	30	50	12
7	Maxim Strbak	D	19	6-2/205	Michigan State (B1G)	`23(45th)	32	2	7	9	17
8	Viktor Neuchev	LW	20	6-2/165	Rochester (AHL)	`22(74th)	57	11	17	28	8
9	Alexander Kisakov	LW	21	5-10/160	Rochester (AHL)	`21(53rd)	32	5	8	13	12
10	Vsevolod Komarov	D	20	6-2/182	Que-Dru (QMJHL)	`22(134th)	60	14	55	69	105
11	Nikita Novikov	D	20	6-4/198	Rochester (AHL)	`21(188th)	65	3	20	23	42
12	Prokhor Poltapov	LW	21	6-0/176	CSKA Moskva (KHL)	`21(33rd)	56	5	8	13	12
13	Jake Richard	RW	19	6-1/171	Connecticut (HE)	`22(170th)	36	7	11	18	6
14	Mats Lindgren	D	19	6-0/183	Red Deer (WHL)	`22(106th)	63	7	34	41	42
15	Topias Leinonen	G	19	6-5/234	JYP (Fin-Liiga)	`22(41st)	6	0	4	4.41	0.844

1. Matthew Savoie, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

Savoie's a dynamic offensive threat with a lethal combination of speed, skill, and hockey sense. He can beat defenders with his skating ability and dangle his way through traffic to create scoring chances for himself and his linemates. He possesses a high-end shot with a knack for finding the net, and his vision on the ice allows him to set up teammates with pinpoint passes. Savoie has drawn comparisons to players like Patrice Bergeron and Aleksander Barkov, and for good reason. While not quite the physical force that Bergeron is, Savoie shares his intelligence and two-way ability. Similarly, Savoie's offensive game evokes Barkov's blend of skill and finesse. There are questions about Savoie's size (5’ 10”, 180 lbs) but his compete level and ability to play bigger than his frame help mitigate those concerns. Savoie is close to a sure thing at the NHL level. The only question mark is how quickly he can adapt to the pro game.

2. Devon Levi, G, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Devon Levi's meteoric rise through the NCAA ranks had scouts raving about his potential as a future NHL star. The buzz stemmed from his remarkable calmness in net, his ability to make highlight-reel saves with a feline grace, and his knack for stealing games for his team. Levi's arrival in the NHL hasn't quite been the seamless transition many expected. While the raw talent is undeniable, there's a sense that the pro game's quicker pace and tighter margins have exposed some weaknesses in his game. His save percentages haven't reached the heights he achieved in college, and there have been moments where his positioning seems a touch off. The key for Levi is to remain patient. Adjusting to the NHL is a challenge for any goalie, and Levi's underlying numbers suggest there's still plenty to be optimistic about. He has the tools to be a difference-maker at this level, but it might take some time for him to fully adjust and find his rhythm.

3. Jiri Kulich, C/LW, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Kulich isn't the biggest forward on the ice, but he plays with a heart that belies his frame. He boasts a powerful skating stride that translates to dangerous rushes and the ability to create separation in tight spaces. Don't be fooled by his speed – Kulich isn't afraid to mix it up in the dirty areas. He battles for pucks along the boards with a willingness to go to the net to create scoring chances. But his true calling card is his offensive arsenal. He possesses a wicked wrist shot with a deceptive release, making him a constant threat from the perimeter. He's not a one-trick pony, though. Kulich displays slick hands and a knack for finding open ice in scoring areas. His hockey IQ shines in his ability to anticipate plays and make smart decisions. While all that is enticing, there's room for improvement in his overall strength. Consistency can also be a concern. If he addresses those issues, Kulich has top-six forward potential with a knack for scoring goals.

4. Noah Ostlund, C, Vaxjo Lakers HC (SHL)

Don't be fooled by his size – Noah Ostlund conducts the offense like a seasoned veteran. The Swedish center boasts a smooth skating stride and elite puckhandling ability, weaving through defenders with a magician's touch. His vision on the ice is a thing of beauty, threading needlepoint passes to spring linemates for breakaways. While not a prolific scorer himself, Ostlund elevates the play of everyone around him, a true playmaking maestro. Questions linger about his finishing touch. Despite flashes of a deceptive shot, consistency in finding the net remains a work in progress. Adding some physicality to his frame wouldn't hurt either, allowing him to battle harder in the trenches and win those board battles. Despite these areas for improvement, Ostlund's potential as a top-six center with elite playmaking skills is undeniable. If he can add some scoring punch and a bit of grit, he could become a difference maker at the NHL level.

5. Anton Wahlberg, C, Malmo Redhawks (SHL)

6. Isak Rosen, C/W, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Isak Rosen wasn't expected to light up the scoresheet in his second AHL season, but the young Swede did just that. After a decent rookie campaign, Rosen exploded offensively in 2023-24, putting up a respectable 50 points (20 goals, 30 assists) in 67 games for the Rochester Americans. His improved playmaking ability was particularly noteworthy, suggesting a well-rounded offensive skillset emerging. Questions linger, however. While he can create scoring chances, his finishing touch remains a work in progress. Consistency was also an issue – stretches of dominance were occasionally punctuated by quiet periods. Did Rosen finally earn his NHL call-up many predicted last season? The answer is a tantalizing ‘almost.’ He saw limited action with the Sabres, failing to register a point. His development this season was a positive step, but the jury's still out on his NHL readiness. Can he refine his finishing and translate his AHL success to the big leagues? The next year will be crucial in determining if Rosen becomes a reliable NHL contributor or remains a top AHL producer.

7. Maxim Strbak, D, Michigan State University (NCAA)

Drafted 45th overall by Buffalo, Maxim Strbak's freshman year at Michigan State was a solid, if unspectacular, debut. Known for his strong defensive positioning and ability to clear the crease, Strbak solidified himself as a reliable presence on the Spartans' blue line. While his offensive contributions were limited (two goals, nine points in 32 games), his defensive awareness and strong work ethic were valuable assets for the team. Strbak's skating remains a work in progress, particularly his top speed. This could limit his offensive upside at the NHL level. However, his ability to shut down plays, and make smart decisions with the puck, suggests he can carve out a niche as a dependable two-way defenseman. His development in the coming years will be crucial in determining whether he can become a top-four option for the Sabres.

8. Viktor Neuchev, LW, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Viktor Neuchev is a tantalizing prospect with a rare blend of speed, skill, and creativity. At 6’ 3” and 190 pounds, he has the frame to play a power-forward role at the NHL level. Neuchev possesses a heavy shot that he can unleash with a quick release. He’s also surprisingly nimble for his size, showing good edgework and acceleration. The Russian winger boasts elite-level quickness, able to separate from defenders with ease and generate high-danger scoring chances. His vision and anticipation are equally impressive, consistently identifying soft spots in coverage and delivering precision passes to exploit them. While Neuchev must continue to develop his physicality and defensive awareness, his upside is significant. With continued growth, he could become a dynamic, top-six forward and a key contributor on the power play. Neuchev's ceiling is high, and he's an exciting addition to the Sabres' prospect pipeline.

9. Aleksander Kisakov, C/LW, Rochester Americans (AHL)

A skating threat with high-end offensive instincts, Aleksandr Kisakov boasts exceptional speed, agility, and edge work, allowing him to weave around defenders and create high-danger scoring chances. Kisakov's vision and anticipation are impressive, consistently identifying soft spots in coverage and delivering precision passes to exploit them. He possesses a dangerous shot with a quick release, and his ability to create space for himself and his linemates makes him a constant offensive threat. Kisakov’s vision on the ice is a plus, and he’s not afraid to mix it up along the boards to win puck battles. With continued development, Kisakov has the offensive potential to become a top-six forward and a key contributor on the Buffalo Sabres' top lines, but his defensive awareness will need to see improvement if he is to reach that height. His upside as a playmaking, goal-scoring winger makes him an exciting prospect in the Sabres' system.

10. Vsevolod Komarov, D, Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL)

Drafted 134th overall in 2022, the Sabres saw something in the 6’ 3”, 187-pound Vsevolod Komarov. The defender was coming off his first season in the QMJHL and while he had modest production, Buffalo believed in him. That appeared to be the right choice as the defenseman led all QMJHL defenders in assists (55) and points (69) this past season, earning him the Emile-Bouchard Trophy as the top defender in the league. The Russian defender has steadily improved since coming to North America, showing off creativity at the blue line, an ability to draw defenders in, and the knack for finding his open teammates. He’s not afraid to fire a shot himself either. Defensively, he utilizes his size very well, using his strength to muscle people off pucks and his reach to knock pucks away and get in the passing lanes. While there was some question about his upside and potential, Komarov is looking more and more like an NHL player.

PROSPECT CRITERIA: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 games (30 for goalies) and less than 25 in one season (25 for goalies).

BELL: 20 Prospect Points – 2024 World Juniors Edition

Josh Bell — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 17:48:31 +0000

GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN - JANUARY 2: Filip Mesar #10 of Slovakia celebrates his third period goal against Finland in Quarterfinal Round action at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship at Frolundaborg on January 2, 2024 in Gothenburg, Sweden. (Photo by Chris Tanouye/IIHF)

Welcome to 20 Prospect Points, a bi-weekly column where I dive into the trending prospects - drafted and draft-eligible - from around the globe.

This edition focuses on the biggest event going on right now - the 2024 World Junior Championships. I look at 20 prospects that have been standing out throughout the preliminary round or have captured headlines.

Drafted Prospects

#1 Arguably the biggest story out of the World Juniors preliminary round, Servac Petrovsky was dominant. He led the tournament in points through Slovakia’s first four games, with nine points (five goals, four assists). At the start of the event, I noted that he was a player to watch and he very much delivered. His excellent shot was on full display as was his overall offensive ability. He did well to raise his stock at this event.

#2 Sticking with Slovakia, they were so strong throughout the round-robin portion of the tournament, outside of a 10-2 loss to the USA. A large reason for that, other than Petrovsky, was Montreal Canadiens’ prospect Filip Mesar. The centreman finished with seven points (one goal, six assists) before the elimination round. It was known that he’d be a significant factor for the Slovaks and he delivered.

#3 One final drafted Slovak that I want to mention here is Maxim Strbak. The Buffalo Sabres’ prospect tied for the points lead by a defenseman with six points (one goal, five assists). He was one of the team’s top players throughout the tournament and has earned some consideration for the Top Defender honour. He was unquestionably the top defender for the team, playing significant minutes and making his presence felt. With some confidence coming out of the tournament, look for a big second half of the year from him back with the NCAA’s Michigan State University.

#4 Tied with Strbak for the defensive point’s lead through the prelims was Swedish defender Theo Lindstein. He also had one goal and five assists, matching Strbak’s output while playing about four minutes less per game. With defenders like Axel Sandin-Pellikka, Elias Salomonsson, and Tom Willander on the Swede’s roster, Lindstein’s performance is all the more impressive. The St. Louis Blues’ prospect and recent first rounder always stands out at international competitions and the 2024 World Juniors have been no different. He also tied for the points lead on the team through their first four games.

#5 Part of the reason Sweden has been so strong in this year’s World Juniors is their depth. All four lines are producing offense and contributing. With a star-studded roster, it’s all the more impressive that Otto Stenberg has been one of the brightest spots for this team. He stood out every game for me, putting up six points (three goals, three assists) along the way, tied for the team lead. Another Blues’ prospect, he should continue to be a factor as the team searches for a gold medal.

#6 After standing out in last year’s World Juniors, it’s no surprise that Jiri Kulich has once again been impressive for Czechia. With seven points (four goals, three assists) in his team’s first four games, he’s helped the team to the medal round where they look to take home hardware for the second straight year. The Sabres’ prospect is officially Czechia’s all-time goalscoring leader at the World Juniors and will look to build on that with the team’s remaining games.

#7 Another standout for Czechia has been goaltender Michael Hrabal, who has to be in the conversation for goaltender of the tournament. The Arizona Coyotes’ prospect has played in every game for the Czechs, and while there have been some goals he’ll want back, he’s been the backbone of this team and kept them in every game. He’s one of only two netminders to have played every game for their team and will be leaned on heavily en route to the medal games.

#8 Team USA came into this event looking very much like the favourite to win it all and they haven’t disappointed so far. Leading the charge has been Columbus Blue Jackets’ prospect Gavin Brindley, who led the round-robin with six goals in his four games, adding two assists for eight points. He plays hard on every shift and it’s been paying off in this event. He’ll be a huge factor in the elimination round.

#9 Brindley’s centreman throughout the tournament, Chicago Blackhawks’ prospect Frank Nazar, has been right there with him, with the two regularly connecting. Nazar led the tournament in assists through the first four games with eight - accounting for all of his points. The two, along with teammate Isaac Howard, have arguably been the best line in this tournament and should continue that moving forward.

#10 The third American with two points per game through the preliminary round, Philadelphia Flyers’ prospect Cutter Gauthier came into the tournament expecting to be a catalyst for the USA and he’s been just that, helping the team to an undefeated record. He finished the prelims with one goal and seven assists and will expand on that moving forward.

Draft-Eligible Prospects

#11 The biggest story surrounding draft-eligible prospects has to be the injury to Adam Jiricek. After suffering an injury in the opening game of the World Juniors, Jiricek was ruled out for the tournament. It has since been announced that he’s done for the remainder of the season - a significant blow for the potential first-rounder. He’s been a bit of a polarizing prospect this season, with some considering him a top-15 or even a top-10 pick and others questioning whether he even belongs in the first round. There was some hope for a strong second half of his season to prove himself, but he’ll be a slightly risky selection in June.

#12 While Canada lacked the star power that they typically have at the World Juniors, they once again had a draft-eligible prospect that carried the way for them. Macklin Celebrini was as advertised, the top skater for the Canadians in arguably every game. He led Canada in points with eight (four goals, four assists) and saw his ice time increase every game. He’s eligible to return next year - if he’s not already in the NHL.

#13 Another draft-eligible that stood out for Canada was goaltender Mathis Rousseau, an overager who dressed for Canada for the first time in his young career. Rousseau has backstopped the Canadians in every single game, going 3-1 and recording one shutout. He had a .923 save percentage and was one of the top netminders in the event. If he wasn’t on the draft radar before, he should be now.

#14 While we’re talking about netminders, another worth mentioning here is Swedish goalie Hugo Havelid. While he played just two games, he didn’t let in a single goal in either one, facing off against Latvia and Canada. The overager was especially impressive against the Canadians and should be the guy for Sweden down the stretch, granted Melker Thelin has been strong as well.

#15 On a high-powered Team USA roster, the role that Zeev Buium played in this event was a question mark coming in. But the potential top-15 selection has been strong, going a point-per-game through the preliminary game with four points (two goals, two assists). He was behind only Lane Hutson for points from a defender on the back end and should take over the No. 1 spot next year. His strong season continued into this event and should down the stretch to the draft as well.

#16 Coming into the tournament, it was expected that Konsta Helenius would be the guy for Team Finland. That wasn’t the case for the potential top-five pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, who failed to register a point in the prelims. The hope was that he would lead this team and be relied on heavily to provide offense, but he’s been extremely quiet throughout this tournament. He’s eligible to be back next year, but this year’s performance has been slightly disappointing. He should still have some chances to prove himself in the medal rounds though.

#17 While Helenius has been in the background, team captain and overage prospect Jere Lassila has been on full display, tying for the team lead in points with five (two goals, three assists). He does seem to be dominant in international competition when the stakes are high, which could be intriguing for an NHL team in the later rounds. Lassila has been one of the best overagers in this event and should continue to show why when the games matter even more.

#18 Every time I see Peter Repcik play; I leave impressed. The undrafted prospect has been quite strong in the QMJHL this season and carried that into the World Juniors for the Slovaks. He has points in every game in the rebound robin, finishing with six points (three goals, three assists) in four games. This is his third World Juniors event, and I’d bet it’s not the last time we see him don Slovak colours.

#19 While the expectations for Norway weren’t very high coming into the World Juniors, the anticipation for Michael Brandsegg-Nygard was extremely high. He didn’t disappoint, looking like the top player for the Norweigan’s throughout the tournament. He tied for the lead in points on the team with three (two goals, one assist) in the four games played. If Norway can avoid relegation, you can bet that the potential top-15 pick will be a big reason why.

#20 Brandsegg-Nygard hasn’t been the only Norweigan draft-eligible to stand out though. Tied with him for the team point lead was Petter Vesterheim, an overager who was a big reason Norway was promoted last year. He was named the Top Player for Norway when they won the D1A U20 tournament last year. Expect him to do everything he can to maintain his country’s place in the top U20 division.

2024 WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP – December 26th, 2023 Game Review

Derek Neumeier — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 13:29:51 +0000

Gavin Brindley of USA during the 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship between USA and Norway on December 26, 2023 in Gothenburg.
Photo: Carl Sandin / BILDBYRÅN

Slovakia 6 vs. Czechia 2

The most recent match between these hockey rivals and former nation siblings went in the favour of Slovakia, with the Slovakians riding a three-goal burst early in the third period to extend a narrow 2-1 lead into a 5-1 rout and eventual 6-2 finale. It was an impressive victory considering their last medal at this tournament was a bronze in 2015, as well as the fact that the two best eligible players for their country, Juraj Slafkovský and Šimon Nemec, are currently playing for their NHL clubs instead. Forward Servác Petrovský led the way offensively for the winning side, with two goals and one assist, while Samuel Honzek, Filip Mešár, Maxim Štrbák and Viliam Kmec all chipped in two points apiece. Czech starting netminder Michal Hrabal was never quite able to find stable ground in his crease, allowing six goals on 34 shots while looking shaky throughout.

Canada 5 vs. Finland 2

Canada's depth and balance will be their most important attributes at this year's event, and they utilized both masterfully on Tuesday, skating away with a 5-2 win in a game that they were in control of throughout, aside for some penalty troubles. Despite being assembled as more of a checking line, the trio of Nate Danielson, Owen Beck and Owen Allard was Canada's best overall, generating the first two goals and tilting the ice throughout most of their shifts. Projected 2024 1st-overall draft selection Macklin Celebrini also had a huge goal in the second frame on a net-front scramble that needed video review to be confirmed. Crucially, the undrafted Mathis Rousseau made 24 saves and looked plenty sharp, instilling some confidence about the team's seeming weakness between the pipes. Defenseman Arttu Kärki recorded assists on both Finnish goals, while goaltender Niklas Kokko turned aside numerous quality scoring chances but wasn't able to deny all of them.

United States 4 vs Norway 1

If the Americans were expecting a casual skate in their tournament opener, they were given a quick wake-up call, as the heavy underdog Norwegians came out ready to play hard. While the outcome of a U.S. win was easily predicted the narrowness of the 4-1 score and the back-and-forth exchange of scoring chances in the first half certainly wasn't. Gavin Brindley's 2-0 goal finally broke the dam for the red, white and blue, and he followed it up with another two and a half minutes later, snuffing out most of the spark that their opponents showed early on. The diminutive Markus Stensrud was simply sensational in net for Norway, making a multitude of stellar saves, and 40 overall, while preventing the score from getting obscene, which could end up being important later on in the tournament if goal differential comes into play as a tiebreaker.

Sweden 6 vs. Latvia 0

The last match of the day was by far and away the least eventful of the opening four, as the host Swedes outshot Latvia 35-20 and trounced them on the scoreboard to the tune of 6-0. At no point did the game ever really seem close, though that didn't deter the cheers from the raucous home crowd. Latvia had a five-minute powerplay just 25 seconds into the first period, on a nasty boarding penalty by Swedish defender Elias Salomonsson, but wasn't able to generate anything from it, and shortly after it ended it was obvious that a vitally important opportunity for them as underdogs had been unfortunately squandered. Jonathan Lekkerimäki and Filip Bystedt, 1st-round picks of the Vancouver Canucks and San Jose Sharks, respectively, each scored two goals apiece, while goaltender Hugo Hävelid didn't face the toughest of tests to earn the 20-save shutout.

Three Stars:

1) Gavin Brindley — United States

The first half of the game between the United States and Norway had all the necessary ingredients for an historic upset. However, Brindley had other ideas. A notorious workhorse and spark plug who was also part of the bronze medal-winning American roster last year, he narrowly pounded home a powerplay one-timer to make it 2-0 and then went beautifully bar down shortly afterwards to make it 3-0. That second marker took the wind out of Norway's sails for a while and they never fully recovered.

2) Maveric Lamoureux — Canada

Lamoureux didn't have a particularly flashy or exciting game, but that was by design, focusing his attentions instead on keeping the Finns quiet and under control over the course of his team-leading 24:50 of ice time. The rangy blueliner was a suffocating defensive presence and undoubtedly frustrating for his opponents to get through. He did, however, help create the game's opening goal when his shot from the point went off Danielson and in, and he was similarly rewarded on the score sheet in the dying minutes when he calmly buried an empty-net goal from center ice.

3) Adam Gajan — Slovakia

Things easily could have gone south for the Slovakian netminder Gajan after allowing a goal just 1:01 after puck drop, but to his credit he immediately bounced back and once again looked like the star player who was crucial in almost upsetting Canada in the quarterfinals of the 2023 tournament. Dialed in and on his toes, he kept things tight and tidy for the remainder of the game's opening 40 minutes, which in turn helped his confident teammates break the deadlock late in the second period and then produce their outburst of goals in the third.

MCKEEN’S 2024 WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP GUIDE – Team Slovakia

Matej Deraj — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 16:26:27 +0000

Slovakia is possibly sending its best-ever World Juniors squad to Sweden. A total of eleven drafted players, highlighted by three first-round picks and four second-rounders, are surely going to do some damage and upset bigger teams. However, the absence of both Juraj Slafkovský and Šimon Nemec will hurt the team's chances to medal, but the Slovaks are definitely the dark horse of this tournament.

Slovakia is bringing fifteen players with previous WJC experience, including last year's Best Goaltender, Adam Gajan, who will be relied on heavily again. The highest-drafted goalie of the 2023 NHL Draft needs to be in the same form as his last World Juniors should Slovakia go past the quarterfinals.

Slovakia’s main weapon is on offense – Slovakia has nine drafted forwards selected in the last two drafts, including Dalibor Dvorský (#10 in 2023), Sam Honzek (#16, 2023), Filip Mešár (#26, 2022), Martin Mišiak (#55, 2023), or Adam Sýkora (#63, 2022). The unusual presence of star players and solid depth should help Slovakia score a lot of goals.

However, the defence is going to miss Šimon Nemec terribly. The Devils' young star was supposed to be the 1D, able to play tough minutes against all opponents and lead the first power-play unit. All of these roles should belong to Maxim Štrbák now, the Sabres' second-round pick (#45) in the last NHL Draft. Štrbák is probably the only standout defenseman on the Slovak blue line, except for, maybe,16-year-old Luka Radivojevič, who is going to turn some heads in the tournament. His role should be limited, but don't be surprised if he hops onto the second power-play unit. The 2025 eligible is a smart and extremely skilled offensive D-man but needs to polish his defensive game and overall strength.

The Slovaks open up the tournament on December 26th in a heated match versus their biggest rival, Czechia. The winner should have a strong chance to clinch the 2nd spot in Group B. Slovaks continue the round-robin stage with games against Switzerland (Dec 27), Norway (Dec 29), and the USA (Dec 31). An interesting fun fact is they play every group stage game at noon.

MONCTON, NEW BRUNSWICK - DECEMBER 30: Dalibor Dvorsky #15 of Slovakia battles for position against Dans Locmelis #11 of Latvia in Preliminary Round - Group B action at the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship at Avenir Centre on December 30, 2022 in Moncton, New Brunswick. (Photo by Chris Tanouye/IIHF)

10 to Watch plus a Sleeper

Filip Mešár, RW/C

After a mediocre D+1 season in the OHL, Mešár was already labelled as a bust by many impatient Canadiens fans. However, the 2022 first-round pick is having a fantastic D+2 season so far with 32 points (13 goals + 19 assists) in 20 matches with the Kitchener Rangers. Mešár is a quick and agile forward able to play both RW and C. He's smart, speedy, and has a sneaky good shot. The expected leader of the Slovak offense should be the biggest star and the team's best forward. Mešár led Slovakia in scoring at the last tournament with six points (2+4) and is expected to repeat in Sweden too.

Dalibor Dvorský, C

Dvorský had a tough start to the season in Sweden. He began the year with IK Oskarshamn in the highest division (SHL) but failed to score a point in ten matches and was quickly demoted to the 13th forward. The St. Louis Blues intervened and sent their most promising prospect to North America. Dvorský is currently tearing up the OHL with 34 points in 20 games. He has a lethal shot and continues to trouble goalies with it, scoring 18 goals so far. His goal per game ratio is the second highest in the OHL, trailing only Carson Rehkopf. Dvorský is another brilliant offensive weapon Team Slovakia has.

Adam Gajan, G

One of the best stories of the last World Juniors, Gajan wasn't initially invited to Team Slovakia's squad. Still, he later ended up on the roster as a last-minute call and the No. 3 goalie. However, the tournament went extremely well for him, and Gajan ended up taking the Best Goaltender award. He was the main reason Slovakia almost upset the gold-winning Canadian squad in the quarterfinals. Slovaks hope Gajan will be able to replicate last year's performance. If the Blackhawks prospect is in top form, it's quite likely Slovakia won't see another quarterfinals exit. His saves will be extremely important for the offensively minded team with a somewhat average defence.

Sam Honzek, LW/C

Honzek missed a significant part of the current season, having played only five games before the tournament. Moreover, the Flames prospect suffered a significant injury at the last World Juniors too, so he's looking for a rebound tournament this year. Honzek has a big body (6´4”) and plays the game with a ton of skill; he's very mobile for a player of his size and has soft hands. The first European captain of the Vancouver Giants in history also possesses decent leadership qualities. He's yet to score a point in his World Juniors career and should be very motivated to show his top performance.

Maxim Štrbák, D

The expected absence of Šimon Nemec means that Maxim Štrbák will have a lot of responsibility as the projected 1D for Slovakia. However, he is no stranger to that role – he led Team Slovakia as captain at the last U18 World Junior Championships and handled it pretty well. The Sabres prospect is a well-rounded, two-way defenseman who is able to play on both special teams and should run the first power-play unit. He plays hard, enjoys the physical aspect of the game, and makes opponents' forwards' lives miserable. Nevertheless, it will be a big test for him and the whole Slovak defence to see how they can keep up with top young offensive prospects.

Adam Sýkora, LW/RW

An energetic, agile forward whose engine never stops running, Adam Sýkora is a unique young forward, mainly due to his approach to the game. He loves blocking shots, throwing hits, and sacrificing his body for the team in general. His positive attitude makes him a great locker room presence. It'd be foolish to expect huge point production from Sýkora, who's more of a bottom-six forward than an offensive dynamo, but he's had a good recent streak in the AHL, scoring nine points in ten games. The Rangers prospect is having a solid rookie season in the A, and the call-up to the first team might come sooner than expected.

Martin Mišiak, W/C

Another Blackhawks second-rounder on the team, Mišiak is a confident and skilled forward who´s able to play all three positions. Mišiak has grown into an effective two-way player; he uses his size (6´2”) well, finishes his checks, and displays solid offensive skills. After a one-and-a-half-season in the Slovak top-tier league, Mišiak went to the USHL and contributed to the Youngstown Phantoms' title. This year, he's playing in the OHL with the Erie Otters, who selected him 1st overall in the 2023 CHL Import Draft. Mišiak should provide solid second-wave scoring for Team Slovakia. He's going to play in his third World Juniors.

Alex Čiernik, LW/RW

The expectations were higher for Alex Čiernik at his last World Juniors tournament, so the Flyers prospect is also looking for a bounce back this year. However, Čiernik suffered a concussion three weeks before the tournament, so don't be surprised if he isn't in top form. Either way, the skilled and nifty forward should help Slovakia with his offensive instincts and years-built chemistry with Dalibor Dvorský. Čiernik is mainly an offensively-minded undersized forward, who has a solid shot and provides great value on the power-play. He certainly doesn't love the physical game, and his form is questionable after the concussion, but the young Flyer will do anything to help his team win.

Juraj Pekarčík, LW/RW

The Blues' third-round pick in the last NHL Draft (#76) would have been a star on most Slovak U20 teams, but the current offensive strength might send him to a bottom-six role. Pekarčík was a player I'd been high on for his whole draft year, and he stood up to everyone at the U18 WJC. He's a big (6´2”), strong winger with solid speed and great playmaking abilities. He left for the WJC camp with a 10-game active point streak in the USHL and led the league in both PPG (1.5) and assists (22). The Blues might have found a true gem in Pekarčík.

Servác Petrovský, C/LW

Another drafted forward who should provide Slovakia with offensive qualities, Petrovský has already played at three different World Juniors (including one cancelled tournament) and is one of the most experienced Slovak players on this team. He's a versatile, two-way forward with an above-average shot who has a bit of an edge to his game. The Wild prospect will be important on both special teams. He´s been criticized in the past for not capitalizing on his scoring opportunities in the U20 National Team, so a revenge tour for Petrovský definitely wouldn't hurt Slovak chances to meet their higher expectations this year.

Sleeper: Peter Repčík, C

The only undrafted player who´s been able to get a top-nine role on this Slovak team. Peter Repčík has always played well in the National Team, and the expectations are quite high for the 19-year-old forward, who scored six points at the last tournament. However, he's flying under the radar for people outside of Slovakia since he hasn't been drafted and never been a true NHL prospect. On the other hand, another great tournament from him might change that. The expected 1C center is a feisty, two-way player who might play a much bigger role than more shiny names in the end. He´s been on a nine games point streak in the QMJHL and his game should translate well to a bigger stage.

Maxim Strbak – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #15 Buffalo Sabres – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Prospect System Ranking – 15th (Last year - 18th) GM: Jarmo Kekalainen Hired: December 2025 COACH: Lindy Ruff Hired: April 2024

Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL) (Rochester Americans, AHL)

Konsta Helenius, C, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Anton Wahlberg, C, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Vsevolod Komarov, D, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Brodie Ziemer, RW, University of Minnesota (NCAA)

Adam Kleber, D, University of Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA)

Luke Osburn, D, University of Wisconsin (NCAA)

Gavin McCarthy, D, University of Boston (NCAA) (Currently with Rochester Americans, AHL)

Nikita Novikov, D, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Maxim Strbak, D, Michigan State University (NCAA) (Currently with Rochester Americans, AHL)

Jake Richard, RW, University of Connecticut (NCAA)

Prokhor Poltapov, LW, CSKA Moscow (KHL)

Ryan Rucinski, C, Youngstown Phantoms (USHL)

Melvin Novotny, LW, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)

Noah Laberge, D, Newfoundland Regiments (QMJHL)

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – BUFFALO SABRES – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #18

Buffalo Sabres Top-15 Prospects

1 - Radim Mrtka

2 - Konsta Helenius

3 - Noah Östlund

4 - Isak Rosén

5 - Anton Wahlberg

6 - Vsevolod Komarov

7 - Adam Kleber

8 - Maxim Strbak

9 - Brodie Ziemer

10 - Jake Richard

11 - Nikita Novikov

12 - Prokhor Poltapov

13 - Viktor Neuchev

14 - Topias Leinonen

15 - Tyson Kozak

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #22 BUFFALO SABRES – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

2025 WORLD JUNIORS: Team Latvia remains the feel-good story of the tournament

Mateiko continues to lead the way for Latvia

Dvorsky, Pecarcik star as Slovakia survives late scare

2025 WORLD JUNIORS: Team Preview – Team Slovakia

Key Players

Dalibor Dvorský, C

Maxim Štrbák, D

Juraj Pekarčík, LW/RW

Luka Radivojevič, D

Tomáš Pobežal, C/W

Samuel Urban, G

Adam Cedzo, RW

Jakub Chromiak, D

Samuel Barcík, D

Daniel Jenčko, LW/C

Sleeper Player

Ján Chovan, RW/C

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – BUFFALO SABRES – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #12

Buffalo Sabres Top-15 Prospects

1. Devon Levi

2. Jiri Kulich

3. Konsta Helenius

4. Noah Ostlund

5. Anton Wahlberg

6. Isak Rosen

7. Vsevolod Komarov

8. Adam Kleber

9. Maxim Strbak

10. Viktor Neuchev

11. Aleksandr Kisakov

12. Brodie Ziemer

13. Nikita Novikov

14. Prokhor Poltapov

15. Viljami Marjala

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #2 Buffalo Sabres – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

1. Matthew Savoie, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

2. Devon Levi, G, Rochester Americans (AHL)

3. Jiri Kulich, C/LW, Rochester Americans (AHL)

4. Noah Ostlund, C, Vaxjo Lakers HC (SHL)

5. Anton Wahlberg, C, Malmo Redhawks (SHL)

6. Isak Rosen, C/W, Rochester Americans (AHL)

7. Maxim Strbak, D, Michigan State University (NCAA)

8. Viktor Neuchev, LW, Rochester Americans (AHL)

9. Aleksander Kisakov, C/LW, Rochester Americans (AHL)

Prospect System Ranking – 15th (Last year - 18th)
GM: Jarmo Kekalainen Hired: December 2025
COACH: Lindy Ruff Hired: April 2024