2 – Matt Savoie, F
Matt Savoie was excellent in Game 1 vs. the Canadiens, and if he can generate a repeat performance against the Penguins, it will give him a massive boost heading into the Buffalo Sabres training camp. Savoie has a chance to stick around the Blue and Gold once the season is underway, but he also needs to maximize those chances every opportunity he gets.
The preseason will ultimately decide whether Savoie earns the right to stick around a little while longer, or if the coaching staff and front office believe he would benefit more from another year in the WHL. This is, of course, assuming he’s not granted permission to play in the AHL.
He faces a massive uphill climb, so realistically, Wenatchee is his ultimate destination. But Savoie still has the power to at least sway the staff and front office while he’s in Buffalo. One of the more interesting storylines in camp will be to see what the Sabres ultimately do with their top pick from 2022.