The Buffalo Sabres may have a mediocre to bad NHL roster, but they have a lot of youth that should provide fans a lot of hope as they struggle to find their way in the NHL. There are some A-quality prospects in their system, and that’s good for the future.

Dylan Cozens

He’s the Sabres’ best prospect, a center, who was able to handle the pro game last year, but it wasn’t ideal. As scarce as points were for him in his rookie season. They were plentiful in the 2021 World Junior Championship. Cozens has speed, and a heavy wrist shot that’s going to be one of the best in the NHL someday.

Owen Power

His decision to go back to Michigan University to try and win a National Championship was smart. His vision, poise, speed, and terrific shot make him a real threat in any league at any time. Power wins a lot of puck battles as top blueliners should.

JJ Peterka

This winger is fast and very effective at cycling the puck, and he has a great motor. He is a proven point producer will play for the Sabres sometime this season.

Jack Quinn

The Sabres want to turn this goal scorer into a center. That will take some time if it succeeds at all. On the wing, he’s got a pro shot, speed, and stick handling. He needs to get stronger to be able to control the middle of the ice.

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

This big netminder will make the big saves. He’s fast post-to-post. He generally doesn’t commit too soon. He got mentally stronger the past few seasons.

Isak Rosen

This versatile forward is now putting up points in the SHL. He’s an excellent skater. He has a great one-timer. Rosen finds the open areas in the offensive zone.

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Mattias Samuelsson

This defenseman plays with aggression. Sometimes that gets him in the penalty box but most times it wasn’t a bad one to take. He skates well and is a good passer, but he is there to play tough defense on most shifts.

Ryan Johnson

This California native has a great one-timer. This talented blueliner finds areas in the offensive zone that are soft, and he can zip an accurate pass to a teammate. Johnson can play a lot of minutes.

Olivier Nadeau

This talented winger will score more points than games played for a second-straight season in Shawinigan. He has good speed and stick and puck control. The puck finds him, and he closes on the net quickly. Great hands as well.

Erik Portillo

This goalie has been red-hot for two seasons now at Michigan University. When 1-on-1, he opens up his pads to look bigger. He has a fast glove hand, and he is now the #1 in net, and that’s good for his development.


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