Buffalo Sabres: Is it already Jiri Kulich time in Western New York?
The Buffalo Sabres reportedly informed Jiri Kulich’s Czech club, Karlovy Vary, that the 28th overall pick will not play in Czechia in 2022-23.
Not long after he signed his entry-level contract with the Buffalo Sabres, I wrote an article that listed three potential destinations for Jiri Kulich: The Rochester Americans, Karlovy Vary, or Junior Hockey Circuit. At this point, it looks as though Karlovy Vary is no longer an option, per the following Tweet:
Been speculated already, but more signs pointing to Kulich being in the BUF org this season. While Karlovy Vary was hopeful he'd return, the Czech club has apparently been notified by BUF that he won't be coming back.
— Kris Baker (@SabresProspects) September 6, 2022
This Tweet shows the Sabres want Kulich in Rochester, where he can start adapting to the North American game immediately. So let’s assume that Kulich is playing in Western New York when October rolls around. How long will he be there and when will he get a call up?
Jiri Kulich will most likely get a cameo with the Buffalo Sabres in 2022-23 if he indeed ends up in Rochester.
Don’t expect Kulich to light up the AHL as he did in the IIHF World Juniors and in development camp. While he is one of the more tenacious players on the ice who exemplifies a never give up approach to the game, Kulich is on the small side and he still has flaws that older, more experienced players will expose.
He must do a better job protecting the puck when in transition, which will be no easy task with the faster, more physical game that awaits him in the AHL. While Kulich has shown off physicality and a remarkable two-way approach, he will be in for a rough learning curve during his early stint in Rochester if he indeed winds up there.
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So is it Jiri Kulich time in Western New York? Expect him to improve throughout the season once he adapts to the North American style. You can also expect to see him make his debut with the Sabres this season in what will most likely be a one-off outing assuming he starts the year with the Amerks.
Article Source: Buffalo Sabres Top 25 Under 25: T-#17 Jiri Kulich by Calvin