Buffalo Sabres 2022 Draft: Weaknesses for each draft pick
By Sion Fawkes
Noah Ostlund, C/16th overall
The Buffalo Sabres took a player at 16th overall who may never evolve into anything more than serving a supporting role. It was something Ostlund was known for in 2021-22 at Djurgardens, scoring just 9 goals while racking up 33 assists and 42 points in 32 games.
A lankier player built in the mold of fellow Swede Isak Rosen (14th overall in 2021), Ostlund’s lack of strength also eerily reminds me of Casey Mittelstadt when the Sabres selected him eighth overall. I personally would like to see Ostlund put on at least 10-15lb with some much-needed strength before the Sabres even think about bringing him over.
That could occur as early as 2024-25, or it could be later. Okay, well what about Isak Rosen, who will likely play in the AHL just one season after the Sabres drafted him? While it’s true Rosen is still rail thin, Ostlund possesses such a high motor and competitive edge that, to maintain such a style for the AHL and the NHL, putting on much-needed size is a must.