Since Buffalo Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams’ first draft, he’s taken a plethora of exciting talent. Here are five of them to get excited about.
Buffalo Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams has already made his mark in the draft room, with three of his selections in 2020 and 2021 having clinched a spot in the lineup. That number can increase to four, if Jiri Kulich, Isak Rosen, or Matt Savoie end up replacing Victor Olofsson at winger.
Earlier today, I concocted a list of Adams’ five best draft picks between 2020 and 2022. Now that we’ve established the top selections, let’s outline five players who you need to follow this season, because sooner or later, they will likely wear a blue and gold uniform on at least a part-time basis.
5 recent Buffalo Sabres draft picks to get excited over
5 – Vsevolod Komarov
Having helped lead his QMJHL team, the Quebec Remparts, to the Memorial Cup, Vsevolod Komarov put himself on the map. The prospect recently signed with the Buffalo Sabres, and the 6’3, 185 pounder brings plenty of excitement as a brewing offensive defenseman, having put up 47 points in 80 games this past season.
Still just 19, we unfortunately won’t see Komarov in the AHL, which isn’t the case for the others listed (one particular prospect will be sneaking their way in). But you can expect him to dominate the junior circuit once again, before he joins the Amerks for their 2024 playoff run.
4 – Olivier Nadeau
Personally, I would put Olivier Nadeau on top of this list, but I don’t feel like getting castigated at the moment. But let me ask you this: What’s not to like about a physical 6’2, 198 lb power forward who put up 61 points in 47 games (regular season and playoffs) AFTER missing significant time recovering from surgery?
The kid didn’t miss a beat, and if anyone is going to dominate with the Amerks next season along with Isak Rosen and potentially Jiri Kulich, Nadeau is a strong candidate. It’s going to be a blast to watch him play.