The Buffalo Sabres may be facing another losing season, but their prospects in the college ranks are vying for a National Championship
The Buffalo Sabres have a bright future. So much that their system includes four remarkable players in the college ranks. One of those players, Devon Levi, led his Northeastern Huskies to the 2022 NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament. However, they went down in the first round to Western Michigan in a defensive thriller.
But Levi has nothing to be ashamed about the way the season ended. In 32 games, he posted a .952 save percentage while his goals allowed average sat at just 1.54. It was a legendary season for the sophomore goaltender, who missed his freshman season because of injury.
Levi also said he will return to the college ranks, allowing him and 15 returning underclassmen another chance to win a National Championship. Although Levi’s return to the NCAA hurts the Sabres organization, you can’t blame him for seeking a title before he signs an entry-level contract.
And with two years remaining before his rights expire with the Sabres, fans can still breathe easily. But what about the other prospects not named Devon Levi? This season, four of them are playing in the Frozen Four.
Of course, all eyes are on Owen Power and goaltender Erik Portillo while the Michigan Wolverines face off with the Denver Pioneers. Power’s first season in the college ranks showed fans why the Sabres made him the top pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. And he followed it up with an even greater sophomore campaign.
Meanwhile, Ryan Johnson and Aaron Huglen lead the Minnesota Golden Gophers against the Minnesota State Mavericks. So if you haven’t met these prospects and what makes them such important puzzle pieces for the Sabres future, the following slides will provide you some insight.