The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by members of the Die By The Blade community. It was a combination of staff writers and over 200 readers that ranked Buffalo Sabres players under the age of 25 as of August 1, 2023. Each participant used their own metric of current ability and production to rank each player. Staff votes counted equally with reader votes.
Isak Rosén
Drafted: 2021 – 1st Round (14th Overall)
Position: Wing/Center
Born: March 15, 2003 – 20 Years Old
2022-2023 stats: Rochester Americans – 14 goals, 23 assists, 37 points in 66 regular season games
2022 T25U25 Ranking: 15
Given how highly Sabres brass spoke about Isak Rosén when he was drafted, it should come as no surprise that he had a strong showing last season in his first North American season. Still though, it was great to see. The rookie finished ninth on the Amerks in scoring, and second among team rookies – second only to Jiri Kulich.
It was certainly a refreshing season for Rosén, seemingly fully-recovered after a season-ending injury in February 2022. He’s healed up nicely, and if his recent showings at the Sabres’ Prospects Challenge are any indication, he’s poised for a stellar sophomore season in the AHL. Entering Monday, he had two goals in the Sabres’ first two games in the tournament and has showcased both the offensive and defensive sides of his game.
One place where the 20-year-old has room to grow? Literally – growing. He reportedly put on 10 pounds of muscle, which is a good start for a kid who’s listed at just 168 pounds. In some aspects, he looks like he’s ready for the NHL – but bulking up a bit more will help him play with the big guns.
Expect another big season from Rosén in Rochester, with perhaps even a call-up or two to the NHL club if the situation & timing are right.