The Buffalo Sabres got a surprising win on Saturday against the Minnesota Wild, and they got some big performances from some unexpected players. Colten Ellis looked great in net for Buffalo, while it was Noah Ostlund who had the deciding goal in the shootout after being selected to go fourth for the Sabres.
After the game, Lindy Ruff was asked why he decided to go with Noah Ostlund and said it was due to some scouting reports he received from the minors. "We had done some research on the reports from the minors, and what came back was that he was sick," Ruff said. "He has some sick moves, so he is going fourth for sure."
Ostlund certainly delivered as he would score on his first career NHL shootout attempt and secure the win after Colten Ellis stopped Vladimir Tarasenko on his attempt just before.
Noah Ostlund continues to impress with an extended run with the Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres have dealt with more than their fair share of injuries to begin the season. However, it has helped create opportunities for some of their younger players like Noah Ostlund.
Ostlund was the 16th overall pick by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2022 NHL Draft and appeared in eight games last season, but had no points in only 10:33 minutes of ice time per game. This season, he has already appeared in 17 games and has three goals and three assists with over 13 minutes of ice time.
Even once Josh Norris returns, which could be as early as Monday against the Winnipeg Jets, Ostlund appears to have a prominent spot. In the game against the Wild, he was the center on a line with Josh Doan and Alex Tuch and finished with a point.
It has been a great start to the season for Noah Ostlund and hopefully he can continue to produce for the Buffalo Sabres moving forward.