NHL Draft 3rd Round: Buffalo Sabres Select Brayden McNabb

by David Oleksy on Jun 27, 2009 11:09 AM EDT

The Buffalo Sabres selected Brayden McNabb from Kootenay of the WHL with their second selection, number 66 overall in the third round. The Sabres continued their quest to get bigger by selecting McNabb who stands at 6'4" and 200 pounds. At 18 years-old he figures to only get bigger as he matures.

McNabb is big kid but that doesn't mean he is slow. He is a smooth skater with very good mobility for a player his size. His potential in the NHL is unclear at this point. He figures to be a sure bet in the NHL but his role is uncertain. He plays a very defensive role but has the talent to become a more well rounded with some development.

McNabb will need plenty of development before he can play in the NHL but once again he will make the Sabres a tougher team in the future. McNabb is always looking for the perfect hit and often finds himself out of position because he plays too physical. When was the last time the Sabres had a player that was too physical? Once again this pick proves that the Sabres are changing their philosophy on what it takes to win.

McNabb moved up the rankings in the second half of the season with a strong showing in the WHL. He also had an opportunity to play with the U-18 Junior team and played in the CHL Top Prospects Game as well. He looks like a sure bet to play in the NHL at some point but his development will determine what his role will be.