The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by members of the Die By The Blade community. 117 readers ranked Buffalo Sabres players under the age of 25 as of August 1, 2025. Each participant used their own metric of current ability and production to rank each player.
Prokhor Poltapov
Drafted: 2021 – 2nd Round (33rd Overall)
Position: Winger
Born: February 1st, 2003 – 22 Years Old
2024-2025 stats: KHL – 68 GP – 17-23-40 / Playoffs: 6 GP – 1-2-3
2024 T25U25 Ranking: 22
The Sabres knew they would have to be patient when they selected Prokhor Poltapov at the top of 2021’s second round. They will have to continue waiting, as he has signed a two-year contract extension with CSKA Moscow in the KHL. This means the earliest he could sign with Buffalo would be in the Spring of 2027. While Buffalo continues to wait, Poltapov gave them some reasons to be optimistic about their long-term investment.
After a dismal 2023-2024, Poltapov came out flying to start the 2024-2025 season. In early September, he went on a tear, collecting 9 points during a 5-game point streak. This propelled him to a very successful season, collecting a career high of 40 points in 68 games. By contrast, he had 13 points in 56 games the previous year and was even demoted to the VHL for five games.
He’s at his best when he uses his speed and skill to attack the middle of the ice. His strength on the puck makes him lethal once he gets a step on a defenseman.
He was also relied on in all situations. He had multiple short-handed goals last season, proving that he’s always a scoring threat when the opportunity is there.
It remains to be seen whether Buffalo can bring him into the fold when his new contract expires. However, if they can, they will be getting an NHL-ready contributor entering his prime at 24 years old while on an entry-level deal. The future benefit could be worth the wait.