As speculation continues to swirl around the upcoming NHL Draft and sportswriters and fans engage in numerous mock scenarios and armchair predictions, the Buffalo Sabres have choices to make. With the 11th pick in the first round, general manager Kevyn Adams and his staff have to decide what they need most.
The team could go the defensive route and draft a solid defenseman, but to according Elliotte Friedman, he thinks they’re really interested in another top-six forward. If Friedman’s information is correct, here are three available players Adams might pick, either trading up with other GMs or possibly staying at 11.
Konsta Helenius C
The 5’11’’ Finnish center combines high-end skills on offense with an unexpected puck strength. As a right-handed shot, Helenius scored five PP goals, won the majority of his face-offs (50.2%) and averaged 16:57 minutes of ice time in 51 games with Finnish hockey league Jukurit in Liiga.
Buffalo's weakness on scoring with the man advantage is a well-known, long-time problem. Drafting an athlete who can score on 5-on-4s is something the blue and gold desperately need to address. If Helenius can do that, it’s more than enough reason for the Sabres to select him.
One observer wrote he mixes New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes offensive ability with fellow New Jersey center Nico Hischier’s determination and competitiveness. It’s no surprise the Devils may want to add a player who would shore up their lines with another talented center. However, if Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald is willing to make a deal in exchange for Helenius, Adams just might snag the accomplished forward.