Buffalo Sabres: Is Jimmy Snuggerud the guy at number sixteen?

The name Snuggerud should ring a bell for Buffalo Sabres fans. And now, Jimmy Snuggerud is in prime position to become the franchise’s sixteenth pick. 

Between 1989 and 1992, Dave Snuggerud wore the iconic blue and gold, playing winger for the Buffalo Sabres. While tagged as a dependable defensive forward, Dave tallied 74 points in 215 games before moving on to the expansion San Jose Sharks via a trade in 1992.

You may remember Dave as one of the hardest-working, grittiest players on those late-80s and early-90s teams. While he never had the most memorable career, he did gain a lot of respect because of his work ethic in NHL spheres at the time.

Jimmy Snuggerud may be hot on the Buffalo Sabres draft radar

Fast-forward to 2022, where Jimmy Snuggerud can be the team’s 16th overall pick come draft day. But unlike Dave, scoring makes up Jimmy’s game. The University of Minnesota commit did not have the most memorable outings in 2020-21, scoring just 48 times (22 goals) in 74 games. But that changed this past season.

In 2021-22, he looked like an all-out threat to score every time he touched the puck. In 82 games, he scored 96 times (33 goals), literally doubling his points total in just eight more contests. That alone speaks volumes regarding Snuggerud’s improvement.

Scouts rave about his shot, citing the fast release. But Snuggerud’s patience and ability to create space for himself are two key factors that raised his production this past season. This comes, some scouts have stated, as a testament to his high hockey IQ.

My NHL Draft has Jimmy going 21st overall to the Pittsburgh Penguins. And most mock drafts, as Buffalo News Mike Harrington pointed out, have Snuggerud landing between the 15th and 25th picks.

We won’t need to wait long to find out whether Snuggerud will wear the same uniform as his father. But judging from his improvements with the USDP, expect him to become a dominant force at Minnesota and ultimately, the NHL. He would make a great pick at sixteenth overall.

(Statistics provided by Elite Prospects)