Getting to know the Buffalo Sabres’ 2018 NHL draft class
By Ryan Brennan
With the 32nd overall pick in the second round, the Buffalo Sabres selected Mattias Samuelsson, a defenseman from the United States.
Name: Mattias Samuelsson
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Birthday: March 14, 2000 (18 years)
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 218 lbs.
Stats (past two seasons):
53 games, 9 goals, 15 assists, 24 points, plus-16 in USHL
37 games, 6 goals, 8 assists, 14 points in US National U17
68 games, 11 goals, 22 assists, 33 points in US National U18
A Word From Mattias Samuelsson:
"“Being drafted has changed my life tremendously. The day-to-day routine is pretty much stayed the same but now I have a completely different mindset. Knowing what the ultimate goal is — to play for the Sabres — gives you even more motivation to get better on and off the ice every day.”"
Fun Fact:
Mattias Samuelsson has hockey in his blood. His father, Kjell Samuelsson, played 813 games in the NHL and even won a Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Mattias was the captain of the US National U18 Team and is happy to one day bring that leadership to the Buffalo Sabres. He will play his freshman year at Western Michigan University.