Best NHL players on the Buffalo Sabres to keep an eye on in 2022

Defenseman Owen Power was the first overall pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. The 6-foot-6 and 219 lb native of Mississauga, Ontario made his NHL debut last season after a successful career with the NCAA Michigan Wolverines. He signed a 3-year, entry-level contract after he was drafted so he could be able to play in the NHL.

During the 2021-2022 season with Michigan, Power played in 33 games, contributing three goals and 29 assists for 32 points and was a +27. He was the leader of the defense and led the entire Wolverine team to success. He made his NHL debut during the 2021-2022 NHL season, scoring two goals and adding an assist for three points in eight games and was a +3. A good showing in a small sample size.

Power is a big body that skates well and uses his size to disrupt passing lanes and take away space in the defensive zone. With his size, he uses it to his advantage to make the team successful. On the offensive side, he can quarterback the power play and can play the penalty kill as well as a regular shift. Power is one to watch as he begins his NHL career and could be the one to lead this team to the playoffs sooner than later.

With Power and Rasmus Dahlin, the Sabres are set on the left side for the foreseeable future. Power is bigger, younger, and could make more of a difference in the long run. A smooth skater, Power could also be in the Calder Trophy race this year as well.