While the Buffalo Sabres have struggled through a rough first half to their season with no one taking over games the way they did last season, a pair of AHL prospects have enjoyed a fine year with the Rochester Americans. Isak Rosen and Jiri Kulich made their respective presence known last season, and that trend has continued halfway through the year, as Amerks.com revealed the duo were part of the 2024 All-Star Classic’s roster for the North Division.
And rightfully so, as Rosen and Kulich proved that they deserved a look with the big club this season. So when injuries struck the Sabres early, they both got a chance, with Kulich appearing in one game while Rosen saw action in seven contests.
While they got a taste of the NHL game, they have also dominated when together throughout the 2023-24 AHL Season. Rosen has collected 24 points in 27 appearances this season with nine goals and 15 assists. He’s currently the team leader in points, and is tied with Lukas Rousek for the lead in assists.
Buffalo Sabres prospects rightfully receive All-Star Game invites
Kulich has played in just 23 games since he took time off to play in the IIHF World Juniors, where he was one of the most dominant players in the tournament. Despite the break, he’s still second on the team with 22 points and he continues to pace the Amerks in goals scored at 16. For context, Brandon Biro is second on the team with just 10 goals, so Kulich is dominating the category.
The 19-year-old continues to look like a future power play specialist, as he’s sunk six goals on the man advantage so far. And if you have been watching the Buffalo Sabres throughout the 2023-24 season, they can use another scoring threat or two when their power play unit is on the ice. If Kulich keeps that up throughout the season, he might just land the role for 2024-25.
Overall, this duo continues to impress not only Sabres and Amerks fans alike, but it’s clear they are receiving national recognition. With roster changes potentially looming for the 2024-25 season, don’t be surprised when these two get more than an extended look when September 2024 arrives.
(Statistics provided by Amerks.com)