NHL Draft Recap: Owen Power’s potential and future role on Sabres
After an eventful week for both the Buffalo Sabres and the NHL as a whole, the week concluded with the Seattle Kraken having selected its first set of players along with the next crop of talent entering the league. Although it was not as clear of a pick as it’s been in recent years, the Sabres ultimately selected University of Michigan defenseman Owen Power with the first overall pick.
While his immediate future is uncertain after concluding his freshman year of college, Power was viewed as this year’s top draft prospect. He is also viewed as a franchise defender who can lead any team for years at the position, and the hope is he can fulfill that role for the Sabres.
Earlier this year, Steve Kournianos of TheDraftAnalyst.com unveiled a scouting report on Power and how his game can translate to the next level. Whether it’s his skating, playmaking, or defensive prowess, this in-depth analysis into the draft’s top prospect and what he brings to an NHL franchise illustrates why he was the top pick of this year’s draft:
Although his 6’6”, 214 lb. frame will be an asset throughout his career, the report stated, “Power can be both graceful and nimble while motoring up the ice at top speed.” His ability to shoot and pass is important, because “even when he’s off target, you get the sense those shots were not intended to score but rather create disarray in the low slot and crease area,” which has lacked on this team in recent seasons.
While his size and skill are among his strongest tools, Kournianos wrote that Power’s intelligence stands out on the ice as well. “His reach and footwork are obvious assets, and he already has the reputation of a defender who won’t get beaten inside or out…He’s used on the penalty kill and utilizes his size and stick to impact both strong and weak sides without getting in the goalie’s way,” as this report gives a great perspective as to what Power brings as a player.
Next. Sabres extend five qualifying offers to RFAs. dark
Despite not having the hype similar to his new teammate Rasmus Dahlin during their respective draft years, there are high expectations on Power once he enters the NHL. Regarding the role he should have on the Sabres, it’s most likely he will eventually find a spot alongside Dahlin as the workhorses on the top defensive pairing for Buffalo as the franchise starts a new chapter.