Konsta Helenius
Konsta Helenius was one of the few skaters who played in both preseason games against the Blue Jackets and made the most of his opportunity. In the first game, he led the Sabres in hits with seven and scored a goal in the third period to push the lead to 4-0.
The second game was good, but not perfect, and it took what could have been a costly penalty late in the third period, with the score 2-1. While Ruff noted the mistake, he also gave him credit for the way he responded after the penalty and thought he responded well.
As a young player, Helenius is going to make mistakes, and that is part of the learning curve when reaching the NHL. However, how players respond to those mistakes is what can really set them apart.
Helenius is more than likely going to be starting the season in Rochester, but it seems like he will be making an appearance with Buffalo at some point.
Radim Mrtka
The Buffalo Sabres first-round pick from this summer played in the first preseason game against the Blue Jackets and delivered a solid performance for his first NHL action, even if it was preseason. Mrtka was paired with Bowen Byram in this game, and the coaching staff gave him plenty of ice time with over 20 minutes, including some time on the power play.
The coaching staff likely will want to get Byram and Rasmus Dahlin some ice time together so they probably won't be split up for these games against the Detroit Red Wings. It will be interesting to see who the Sabres pair with Mrtka and if he is able to put together another good game this preseason.