Top 10 forward prospects signed with the Buffalo Sabres in 2023

The Buffalo Sabres have a few notable forwards in the prospects pool for 2023-24. So who are the top 10 signed to the Blue and Gold?

Last week, we ranked the Buffalo Sabres top ten overall prospects, regardless of whether they signed with the organization. This time around, we’re ranking each prospect at their individual position AND only if they’re signed to at least an ELC with the Blue and Gold. Therefore, you won’t see 2023 first round pick Zach Benson on the list below, or second round pick Anton Wahlberg.

Most of those listed below are also in Rochester, though I have a few outliers, like Noah Ostlund. The list is also based on several criteria, as I’ve taken into account NHL experience, how likely a player is to make the NHL, age, and overall potential.

So who takes the top spot in today’s list? Keep reading to find out.

Best forward prospects signed with the Buffalo Sabres

1 – Lukas Rousek

With two NHL games under his belt, Lukas Rousek is one of just a pair of prospects on this list with NHL experience. He also shined in his two appearances. And with the lineup shuffling following Jack Quinn’s injury, Rousek has an excellent chance of finding a spot on the roster AND playing ample minutes if he picks up where he left off.

2 – Jiri Kulich

Jiri Kulich’s performance during the season and in the playoffs will force the Buffalo Sabres to give him a look. And if 2023-24 were a transition season, I’d be all for him getting the nod over Rousek. But in a year when fans and the NHL universe expect playoffs, Rousek would get the nod over Kulich.

3 – Matt Savoie

Don’t be surprised if Matt Savoie makes the Buffalo Sabres roster purely so they can shuffle the 19-year-old to the AHL for a handful of games to give him more experience. Savoie looked so-so at best during his two-game stint with Rochester, and he needs to add strength before he plans on seeing NHL, or even AHL ice full-time.

4 – Isak Rosen

Now that he’s acclimated to the North American style, Isak Rosen could turn in a big season in 2023-24. He’s still not big or strong enough for a full-time spot on the Sabres roster, but after watching him in the playoffs, it could be the only thing holding him back.