Sabres select Rudolph fourth overall

Rudolph was projected to go further in the draft, but his combination of size and offensive ability was too much for general manager Jarmo Kekäläinen to pass on. He recorded 78 points in 68 games last season for the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League.

He brings great transition ability and a booming shot, making it easy for teams to project him as a power-play quarterback. Rudolph needs to limit turnovers in his game and work on the raw foot speed before making the jump to the NHL.

Rudolph is committed to the University of Denver in the 2026-27 season.