Yesterday, Zach took a peek at a few of the prospects that might be available for Buffalo in the second round. But the big question in this draft revolves around what the Sabres will do with their two first round picks. Let’s take a gander at a few prospects that might be in play at pick #21.
Thomas Wilson – RW – Plymouth (OHL) – 6’4” – 203 lbs
Wilson is a massive body that exemplifies the term power forward. He racked up 141 penalty minutes last season to go along with his 27 points, but was a point per game player in 13 playoff games. He spent much of the season plagued with injury, and was voted “Best Body Checker” in the OHL by the coaches, and was a runner up for “Hardest Worker.” Looking for a Kassian replacement with a better work ethic? Here you go.
Stefan Matteau – C – USHL – 6’2” – 210 lbs
We covered him a few days ago.
Sebastian Collberg – RW – SWE – 5’11” – 176 lbs
Collberg is a slightly undersized winger from Sweden, but think of him as a Tyler Ennis on the wing. He’s fast, creative, and helped Sweden to win gold at the WJC this year. The Sabres showed last year that they’re finally willing to take European players again, and Collberg certainly brings an element of speed on the wing that the organization lacks.
Brendan Gaunce – C – Belleville (OHL) – 6’2” – 215 lbs
Gaunce was described by one scout to NHL.com this way:
A scout said if he were building a team from ground-up, Gaunce would be his first pick
If that ain’t a ringing endorsement, I don’t know what is. Gaunce is a big center who is equally adept and handling and protecting the puck. Not afraid to play in the dirty areas, Gaunce tallied 68 points in 68 games for Belleville last season, and would fit in really well as a top center prospect for Buffalo.