Lance Lysowski of The Buffalo News said today that the Buffalo Sabres are meeting with draft prospect, center Nathan Gaucher.
The Buffalo Sabres might just have their guy at 16th overall. Nathan Gaucher, center for the Quebec Ramparts, met with the Sabres earlier today. Here is what Lysowski had to say on the subject:
Nathan Gaucher of the Quebec Remparts is set to meet with the Sabres today. A 6-foot-3 center who could be an option for Buffalo at 16. Really impressive kid.
— Lance Lysowski (@LLysowski) July 6, 2022
Now, let’s exercise some caution. Lysowski stated that Gaucher, like most prospects, has had his name called in mock drafts ranging from the mid-to-late first, to as far back as the third round. This comes as many in the Sabres faithful feel that Gaucher would be a reach at 16th overall.
But let’s be honest with ourselves, few centers in this draft possess such outstanding size as Gaucher, who is listed at 6’3, 207lb in the 2022 TCB NHL Draft Guide. TCB also has Gaucher listed as a potential third round pick for the Sabres, but if general manager Kevyn Adams and the front office likes him, why not snag the towering center 16th overall?
Will Nathan Gaucher be the Buffalo Sabres pick at 16th overall?
Here is a summary of TCB’s scouting report on Gaucher: TCB cites his intensity and two-way prowess. He can create both turnovers and scoring opportunities, and his puck pursuit is bar-none. He loves taking matters into his own hands, especially in the middle of the ice, and he does not hesitate to show off his powerful release when taking shots.
A complete player with, as mentioned, NHL-ready size, Gaucher plays with expertise regardless of the zone he is playing in. And despite his size, you can’t underestimate his speed or quickness. Especially when he drives the puck into the offensive zone.
Overall, Gaucher has three seasons of experience with the Quebec Ramparts. His numbers have improved each season, topping out in 2021-22 when he scored 57 points in 61 games. 31 of which went for goals.
(Statistics provided by Elite Prospects)
The player profile in today’s article was made possible by the 2022 TCB NHL Draft Guide, where you can check out Gaucher’s full scouting report.