The Buffalo Sabres were looking to get back on track after losing two straight against the Nashville Predators, who have been playing better hockey as of late. However, it didn't matter for Konsta Helenius as he helped spark the Sabres with three points in the first period.
He helped get the scoring started as he had an assist on Noah Ostlund's first goal of the game. This would be his first career NHL point, but he added another assist on his very next shift as Ostlund found the back of the net once again.
Helenius would get into the scoring himself later in the period as he had a beautiful shot from the slot that pushed the Sabres' lead to three. It was not only an unforgettable period for the young player, but he also made franchise history in the process. He is now the first player in Buffalo Sabres history to have a game with three or more points within the first two games of his NHL career.
Buffalo Sabres have set Konsta Helenius up for success by being patient
The Buffalo Sabres have had an issue in the past of rushing prospects up to the NHL or putting them in a position that doesn't fit their skill set. After Josh Norris' injury, the Sabres would bring Helenius up from Rochester, but didn't put him in the lineup right away.
Head coach Lindy Ruff was asked about this and made it clear that he views Helenius as a Top 9 player, and that is where he needs to play. Ruff has stuck to his word on that, and Helenius has made an immediate impact as a result.
Last season, Helenius made the jump to the AHL after the Sabres selected him 14th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. He started slow with Rochester last season, but by the time the playoffs rolled around, he was having success with six points in eight playoff games.
Helenius has continued that success this season with 30 points in 34 games as a 19-year-old before he was called up to Buffalo. The biggest question is whether he can stick in the lineup once Josh Norris returns or if they send him back to Rochester.
The Sabres have shown patience with the player, and it wouldn't be surprising if the plan was to have him go back to the AHL. However, if he keeps playing the way he is, the Sabres will have no choice but to keep him in Buffalo.