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Ranking the last 10 Buffalo Sabres first round picks from worst to best

By Sion Fawkes

Dec 14, 2021; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin (26) is congratulated by his teammates on his goal against the Winnipeg Jets during the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2021; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin (26) is congratulated by his teammates on his goal against the Winnipeg Jets during the second period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Buffalo Sabres
Jun 21, 2019; Vancouver, BC, Canada; Ryan Johnson poses for a photo after being selected as the number thirty-one overall pick to the Buffalo Sabres in the first round of the 2019 NHL Draft at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports /

Ryan Johnson, D/Minnesota

As of July 2022, we aren’t even sure if Johnson even signs with the Buffalo Sabres. If he is traded or opts not to sign, he’s obviously a wasted investment. So good luck to him if he decides to take that route.

Now if Johnson decides to play for the team that liked him enough to draft him, there are many pros to his game. Like Rosen, he’s a speedy skater and one of the most agile in the college ranks. He’s physical at the blue line, and is outstanding when in control of the puck.

Overall, I like Johnson as a player. And also like Rosen, he should move up easily in these rankings if he decides to sign a contract. Johnson also has incredible two-way tendencies, evidenced by his 19 points (three goals) in 39 games last season.

If he signs and plays well in Rochester, then the Sabres may, in time, have an incredible rotation of young defensemen. Perhaps the most intriguing in all of professional hockey.

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