As the calendar inches closer to the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship in Minnesota, excitement builds around which young stars will represent their countries on this prestigious international stage. For the Buffalo Sabres, a team undergoing a rebuild with a focus on youth, the tournament offers a prime opportunity to showcase their top prospects. Several Sabres prospects are strong candidates to participate in the tournament, with some already having a taste of World Junior experience.
One name that stands out is Konsta Helenius, the Sabres' first-round pick from the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. Helenius has transitioned to North American hockey, playing for the Rochester Americans in the AHL. Last season, he had 35 points for the Rochester Americans and was named to the AHL's Top Prospects Team. This season, he has continued his strong play with 16 points in 21 games. Helenius played for Finland in the 2025 World Junior Championship, recording six assists and earning a silver medal. His playmaking ability and experience make him a near-lock to represent Finland in 2026.
Radim Mrtka, the Sabres' top pick from the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, is another prospect likely to compete in the 2026 World Junior Championship. After a brief stint with the Rochester Americans, Mrtka returned to the WHL's Seattle Thunderbirds, where he has 12 points in 12 games. Mrtka's international experience with Czechia in the Under-18s last year positions him as a key player for the Czechian team.
Team USA's preliminary roster for the 2026 World Junior Championship includes three Sabres prospects: Brodie Ziemer, Luke Osburn, and Adam Kleber.
Ziemer, a third-round pick in 2024, has been a consistent offensive force. He is currently playing for the University of Minnesota and is on pace to surpass his freshman year offensive numbers. Ziemer also earned a gold medal with Team USA at the 2025 World Junior Championship, contributing three goals and four assists.
Kleber, a second-round pick in 2024, is a high-IQ defenseman known for clearing the front of the net. He is currently playing at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Kleber also won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2025 World Junior Championship.
Osburn has made significant progress over the past year. He currently plays for the University of Wisconsin and has impressed with his effortless skating and defensive abilities.
Anton Wahlberg, a second-round pick in 2023, is another prospect who may represent Sweden. Wahlberg is currently playing for the Rochester Americans, where he has nine points in his first season in North America. He played for Sweden in the 2025 World Junior Championship, contributing three points as Sweden won a silver medal.
Maxim Strbak, a second-round pick in 2023, is a defenseman who has represented Slovakia in the past three World Junior Championships. Strbak plays for Michigan State University.
These Sabres prospects have the potential to make a significant impact at the 2026 World Junior Championship. Their performances will not only contribute to their respective national teams but also provide valuable experience as they continue their development within the Sabres organization.
