5 best first-round picks in Buffalo Sabres history

By Sion Fawkes | Jan 28, 2022

BUFFALO, NY - FEBRUARY 23: New Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula stands with former Sabres palyers Rene Robert #14, Rick Martin #7 and Gilbert Perreault #11 during pre game ceremonies prior to play against the Atlanta Thrashers at HSBC Arena on February 23, 2011 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Rick Stewart/Getty Images) /

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Phil Housley

Housley played a dual role for the Sabres. After the legendary defenseman hung up his skates, he returned as the team’s head coach for two seasons. The Sabres drafted Housley sixth overall in the 1982 NHL Entry Draft, and he spent his first eight seasons in Buffalo, never appearing in fewer than 72 games during that stretch.

As a member of the Sabres, Housley played in three All-Star Games, and he made seven throughout his career. He also ranks 23rd all-time with 1,495 games played, and 20th with 894 career assists.

The Sabres inducted Housley into the Buffalo Sabres Hall of Fame in 2007. He is also an inductee of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame (2004), and the Hockey Hall of Fame (2015). Housley has also compiled a career head coaching record of 58-84-22.

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