Buffalo Sabres: 4 most intriguing prospects in the system
By Sion Fawkes
The Buffalo Sabres have intriguing prospects all across the system. Here are four prospects to watch from each corner of that system.
The Buffalo Sabres have a bright future as it is, and their prospect pool is among the best in the NHL. And there are four intriguing prospects you will want to keep an eye on this season.
Today’s article is not about prospects that will play for the Sabres in 2022-23, or even next year, for that matter. But they are names you want to know and even follow since their chances of eventually sneaking their way onto the roster three to five years from today are high.
Let’s meet these prospects and explore why they are such hot commodities this season. Starting with one of the most interesting at the AHL level.
The Buffalo Sabres have four intriguing prospects from every corner. Prospect #1 – Lukas Rousek, AHL
Drafted in 2019 at 160th overall, Rousek finally saw time with the Rochester Americans last season. He overcame a torn ACL and missed 57 games for the Americans in 2021-22, but he finally made it onto the ice late and played in 19 games.
Unfortunately, his numbers were barren, with just four points in those contests that included one goal. However, he had a rebound campaign in 10 playoff games, sinking six points and two goals.
Now with the likes of Arttu Ruotsalainen playing in Switzerland and Jack Quinn and J.J. Peterka most likely moving up to the Buffalo Sabres roster, expect Rousek’s role to increase in Rochester. There is also an outside chance Brett Murray moves up and sees time in Buffalo, which will only give Rousek more playing time.
I am expecting Rousek to be fully healthy this season and continue the trend he set in the playoffs. Look for a 45-50 point outing from the former sixth-round pick.