The Buffalo Sabres are building a promising future, and their prospect pool is a key reason for optimism heading into the 2025-26 NHL season. While the team hasn't reached the playoffs since 2011, the development of their top prospects could be the key to ending that drought. Here’s a look at the Sabres' top 10 prospects who could make an impact in the near future:
Konsta Helenius (C): Helenius is considered by many to be the Sabres' top prospect. The Finnish center is known for his exceptional hockey IQ, playmaking abilities, and two-way game. After a solid first season in North America with the Rochester Americans, where he recorded 35 points in 65 games, Helenius impressed further during the AHL playoffs. While he may not project as a top goal-scorer, his vision and defensive acumen make him a valuable asset. He is expected to compete for a role in the top six.
Radim Mrtka (D): Drafted ninth overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, Mrtka is a towering defenseman with top-pairing potential. His 6-foot-6 frame and improving offensive skills have made him a highly touted prospect. Mrtka posted 35 points in 43 games for the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL, showcasing his offensive capabilities. The Sabres hope he will eventually become a long-term partner for Rasmus Dahlin on the top defensive pair.
Noah Östlund (C): Östlund is a skilled center with impressive playmaking and skating abilities. Although slightly undersized, he makes up for it with his hockey sense and creativity. Another season in the AHL is likely for Östlund to add muscle before he secures a full-time role in the NHL.
Devon Levi (G): Levi has been a standout goalie in the AHL, demonstrating athleticism and a strong work ethic. He recorded seven shutouts in the 2024-25 AHL season. Despite his success in the AHL, cracking the Sabres' NHL roster full-time has been a challenge. While he's athletic, his smaller stature for a goalie may be an obstacle.
Isak Rosén (RW): Rosén is a skilled forward with a knack for finding the back of the net. He led Rochester in goals and points, indicating he's trending towards a regular role with Buffalo. Rosén might get a chance to prove himself in the NHL and potentially score 15-20 goals in a middle-six role, but may also find opportunity elsewhere.
Anton Wahlberg (F): Wahlberg brings a combination of size and skill to the Sabres' prospect pool. The Swedish forward impressed with his physical game and offensive skill during his rookie season in the AHL. His performance at the World Junior Championship highlighted his two-way capabilities. He projects as a potential third-line center.
Jiri Kulich (LW): Kulich has been a consistent producer since transitioning from Czechia, accumulating 91 points in 119 AHL games. He is considered close to earning a promotion to the NHL.
Nikita Novikov (LHD): Novikov is a large, physical defenseman who excels at disrupting scoring lanes. His mobility for his size is a plus, and he projects as a potential bottom-pairing NHL defender.
Topias Leinonen (G): Leinonen, a 6-foot-5 Finnish netminder, possesses intriguing athleticism. His development path is considered a long-term project, and his play has been inconsistent.
Adam Kleber (D): Kleber is a steady and effective defenseman. While not flashy, he is reliable in his own zone.
The Sabres' strength lies in their center depth and sizable defense prospects. Helenius and Ostlund lead a group of centers who could compete for top-six roles, while Mrtka, Novikov, and Kleber represent a wave of bigger defenders who could make the team tougher to play against. The organization also has a number of solid goaltending prospects. The Sabres lack high-end skill on the wings within their prospect pool. Isak Rosén is the most skilled winger, but beyond him, there aren't many other wingers who project as top-six players. However, some of the team's centers could potentially transition to the wing if needed.
Overall, the Sabres have a solid prospect pipeline with depth at key positions. The continued development of these players will be crucial as the Sabres aim to return to the playoffs and build a competitive team for years to come.
