Will recent recall receive playing time during Sabres western road trip?

In a corresponding move to loaning netminder Devon Levi to Rochester, the Buffalo Sabres recalled Americans’ leading scorer, Isak Rosen. The former 14th overall pick of the 2021 NHL Draft has yet to make an impact in the NHL, after debuting with the Sabres on 11/25/23 against the New Jersey Devils.

After seven games played being held pointless, and only averaging 8:35 minutes on the ice, the team was quick to send Rosen back down to the AHL. However, after a hot start to the 2024-25 campaign in the minors, can we expect Rosen to have an impact during the team’s highly anticipate Western road trip?

Rosen is having a career-best start for the Rochester Americans this year. In 14 games played, the young forward has found himself leading the team with 13 points (four goals, nine assists). However, will he get the opportunity to showcase his talent during the Sabres' California road trip?

So far this year, Sabres fans may have noticed a trend in Head Coach Lindy Ruff riding the hot hand when it comes to who gets playing time. For example, we have seen both Henri Jokiharju and Jack Quinn sit early on due to lackluster play. For a young player like Rosen, getting playing time early and often can be key in boosting confidence, but will we see Ruff insert him into the lineup?

Expect at the very least to see Rosen slide his way into a game or two during this away-stand for the Sabres. Although he may not receive the most playing time, it would be beneficial for the young forward to get minutes in the NHL.

Perhaps we see Rosen slide in with the likes of some veterans like newly acquired Jason Zucker or Dylan Cozens. Or, will the team opt to pair him with some other young forwards like Zach Benson or Jack?

Maybe we will even see Ruff insert him next to former Rochester lineup, Jiri Kulich. Either way, Rosen will look to make an impact and contribute to the offense, hopefully tallying his first career NHL point in the process.