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5/17 Recap: Makarov hangs tough in Memorial Cup opener

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sat, 18 May 2013 05:29:00 PDT

Andrey Makarov stopped 30 of 33 shots Friday as the Saskatoon Blades opened the 2013 Memorial Cup with a 3-2 loss to the London Knights. The Blades, who hadn't played since being eliminated from the WHLplayoffs back on March 27, took a bit to get into a groove but were kept in the game by some excellent saves by Makarov.

After Josh Nicholls (NYR) put the Blades got on the board, London draft prospect Bo Horvat caused a neutral zone turnover and skated in for the nice cross-ice feed to Brett Welychka to make it 1-1. The teams would trade goals to knot the game at 2-2 until 2013 draft eligible Nikita Zadorov buried a power play rebound with 5:45 left in the third period to give the Knights the victory. Despite the outcome, the effort earned Makarov the game's number one star.

The tournament continues Saturday with the much anticipated match-up between WHL champion Portland and kings of the QMJHL, Halifax. The game features the top three North American skaters in Winterhawks defender Seth Jones and the dynamic Mooseheads duo of Nathan MacKinnon and Jonathan Drouin, along with Central Scouting's top-rated netminder in Zachary Fucale. Makarov and the Blades return to action Sunday versus Halifax.

5/13 Recap: Lepkowski's Colts drop heartbreaker

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Wed, 15 May 2013 05:22:00 PDT

Bo Horvat continued to impress NHL execs on his way to the draft with a pair of goals Monday including the winner with less one second remaining in regulation as London claimed the OHL championship with a 3-2 victory over Barrie. Horvat amassed 16 goals and 23 points in 21 games to earn MVP of the OHL playoffs. Horvat, along with fellow draft eligibles Max Domi and Nikita Zadorov will move on to Saskatoon for the 2013 Memorial Cup to battle Portland, Halifax, and the host Blades for Canada's junior crown.

Sabres defensive prospect Alex Lepkowski logged a plus-one rating in the game seven loss, and will now await next steps from the organization regarding his career path. Fans should expect to get a closer look at the 6-foot-4 defender at when development camp opens in July.

5/11 Recap: Colts comeback falls short

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sun, 12 May 2013 07:35:00 PDT

Alex Lepkowski notched an assist Saturday as Barrie dropped a 5-4 overtime decision to London in game six of the OHL Championship series. Maple Leafs prospect Ryan Rupert recorded two goals including the OT winner to pace the Knights, while 2013 draft eligible Bo Horvat scored for the third straight contest.

The Colts trailed 4-0 after forty minutes but went on the attack in the final frame with four goals on nine shots to force extra time. With under five minutes to play in regulation, Lepkowski sprung Tyson Fawcett for an opportunity down the left side that was cleaned up by Mitchell Theoret (NYI) to make it a 4-3.

In Friday's game five, Lepkowski posted a plus-two rating as the Colts were downed by the Knights 6-4. Horvat struck twice and added an assist, while fellow draft eligible Max Domi contributed one goal and one assist.

The series now heads to an exciting game seven Monday in London to settle the league title. The winner will join QMJHL champion Halifax, host Saskatoon, and one of Portland or Edmonton at the Memorial Cup beginning on May 15.

5/8 Recap: Lepkowski tough as Colts inch closer to championship

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Thu, 09 May 2013 06:17:00 PDT

Alex Lepkowski maintained his chippy posture on the Barrie blueline Wednesday as the Colts got past London 6-4 in game four of the OHL Championship series. The victory gives Barrie a commanding 3-1 series lead with a chance to capture the title Friday in London. Lepkowski was a physical presence throughout the tilt, using his body and stick to defend while logging an even rating in the 10-goal affair (he was not on the ice for any of the goals). Winnipeg prospect Mark Schiefele collected four goals and an assist to lead the Colts, while 2013 draft eligible Bo Horvat pumped an NHL-style shot from the slot for one of the Knights’ goals.

5/6 Recap: Lepkowski lights lamp as Colts grabs lead

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:41:00 PDT

Alex Lepkowski scored the game winning goal Monday as Barrie downed London 6-3 win game three of the OHL championship series. The doubling gives the Colts a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. Lepkowski, who went through the regular season with scoring a goal, scored his second of the post-season just 1:40 into the third period to give the Colts the 4-3 lead. The Colts will look to inch their way closer to an OHL championship and Memorial Cup berth when the puck drops for game four Wednesday in Barrie.

5/5 Recap: Lepkowski helps out in Colts loss

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Mon, 06 May 2013 05:28:00 PDT

Alex Lepkowski notched an assist Sunday as Barrie was defeated by London 4-1 in game two of the OHL championship series. Draft eligible forward Bo Horvat picked up a goal and an assist for the Knights, who were led by pair of goals from Bruins prospect Seth Griffith. Game three takes place Wednesday in Barrie.

On Friday, Lepkowski recorded a minus-one rating as the Colts opened the series with a 4-2 victory in London. The 6-foot-4 defender has two points (1+1) and a minus-three rating through 17 post-season games.

Last Wednesday, Zemgus Girgensons scored his third goal of the playoffs and Nick Tarnasky also marked as Rochester was eliminated from the AHL playoffs with a 3-2 overtime loss to Toronto. The Amerks end the season by being swept three games, losing to the Marlies for the second straight year in the first round. David Leggio made 27 saves in defeat while Johan Larsson assisted on all three of Girgensons’ tallies to finish the playoffs with three points.

4/29 Recap: Lepkowski's Colts get shot at title

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:21:00 PDT

Alex Lepkowski (even) continued his blue-collar defensive ways Monday as the Barrie Colts advanced to the OHL championship with a 3-1 win over Belleville. Paired with offensive-minded Ryan O'Connor for the final games of the best-of-seven victory, the steady leader will need to elevate his play when the Colts square off with the London Knights for the league title beginning Friday. Brady Austin finished even for the Bulls to finish the post-season with five assists and a plus-14 rating in 17 games.

4/27 Recap: Girgensons' pair not enough as Amerks drop opener

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 08:29:00 PDT

In Saturday play, Zemgus Girgensons scored twice and Cody McCormick added a short-handed goal but the Rochester Americans opened the 2013 AHL playoffs with a 6-3 loss at Toronto. The Amerks dictated the pace of play, firing twice as many shots on goal as the Marlies (34 to 17) only to allow their opponent to break a 3-3 tie after forty minutes with three third-period goals. David Leggio finished the game with 12 saves and the loss, while Johan Larsson added two assists for the losing side. Dan Catenacci, Mikhail Grigorenko, and Corey Tropp did not play for the Amerks on Saturday, but at least one (Grigorenko) is expected to be inserted into the lineup on Sunday when the Amerks look to even the series before heading home for game three.

In the OHL, Brady Austin finished with a plus-two rating as Belleville forced a home-ice game seven in the Eastern Conference final with a 3-1 win at Barrie. Austin, who was the game's third star in the Bulls' Friday victory by the same score, was paired with 2013 draft eligible Jordan Subban. Alex Lepkowski, who was paired with offensive-minded Ryan O'Connor on the Colts blue line, finished the game with a minus-two rating. The Bulls and Colts will play the deciding game seven Monday in Bellevile for the right to face London for the league title.

4/24 Recap: Armia a champion

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:10:00 PDT

Joel Armia became an SM-Liiga champion Wednesday as Assat Pori posted a 3-2 victory over Tappara Tampere to close out the final round series in six games. Armia posted a pair of assists in the championship series, giving him three goals and eight points in 16 post-season contests. Despite playing big in the offensive zone en route to Assat taking first league title since 1978, the 6-foot-3 shooter finished with a season-high eight-game goal scoring drought. It is thought that Armia will get a look from Team Finland for the upcoming World Championship before determining his next move. Signed to a contract back last summer, the newly-minted champion will look to bring that winning mentality to the Sabres organization when he embarks on his rookie season of North American hockey in 2013-14.

In the OHL, Alex Lepkowski (-1) got into a fight as Barrie downed Belleville 4-3 in overtime to win game four of the OHL Eastern Conference final. Lepkowski, who has been physical all series long, quickly got into a scrap with Carter Sandlak just 2:04 into the first period to set an early tone. Belleville defender Brady Austin was not on the ice for any of the Bulls' goals against. The Colts, who take a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, will look to close things out Friday night in Belleville.

4/22 Recap: Armia assists in Aces triumph

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 06:14:00 PDT

Joel Armia assisted on the game winning goal in the game's 109th minute Monday as Assat downed Tappara 2-1. Armia took the puck at the blue line, took an angle to the inside and made a cross-ice pass to the circle to set-up the feed for the goal. The secondary helper gives the 6-foot-3 winger eight points (3+5) in 15 playoff contests. The triple overtime victory gives the Aces a 3-2 lead in the SM-Liiga championship series, giving the Armia and company a shot at winning the league title in Wednesday's game six.

In the OHL, Alex Lepkowski finished with a minus-one rating as Barrie edged Belleville 5-4 in OT to win game three of the Eastern Conference final. Bruins prospect Anthony Camara buried the game winning goal with five ticks remaining in the first overtime session to give the Colts a 2-1 series lead. Game four is Wednesday in Barrie.

4/20 Recap: Cat cashes in debut

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 08:39:00 PDT

Dan Catenacci made a successful AHL debut Saturday, scoring the game winning goal and adding an assist as Rochester clinched a playoff berth with a 5-1 hammering of Hamilton. Luke Adam and Phil Varone each added a goal and two assists, while Max Legault and Evan Rankin rounded out the Amerks scoring with singles. David Leggio stopped 29 of 30 shots for the Amerks, who will face one of Texas, Toronto, or Grand Rapids in the first round of the playoffs. Rochester wraps up the regular season Sunday with a rematch with the Bulldogs.

In the OHL, Alex Lepkowski (+1) played tough in his own end as Barrie evened the Eastern Conference final at one game each with a 5-0 victory over Belleville. Bulls rearguard Brady Austin finished with an even rating in the drubbing. With the teams splitting the opening frames in Belleville, the clubs will next head to Barrie for Monday and Wednesday tilts.

In Finland, Joel Armia was kept off the scoresheet through 14:44 of work as Assat downed Tappara 4-0 to tie the SM-Liiga championship series at two games apiece. Armia, who has gathered three goals and seven points this post-season, hasn't scored in his last six games for the longest goal drought of his 2012-13 season. The teams will reconvene Monday for the pivotal game five.

4/19 Recap: Armia comes close as Aces fall

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 19:59:00 PDT

Joel Armia finished with a plus-one rating Friday but Assat was defeated by Tappara 3-2 in game three of the SM-Liiga championship series. Armia (15:50 TOI) missed a golden opportunity late in the first period (below) but came back on his very next shift to contribute to an Aces power play tally as the team's went to the first intermission tied 1-1. Assat trails the best-of-seven affair 2-1 with game four taking place Saturday in Pori.

In OHL action, Brady Austin put in a strong defensive performance as Belleville opened the OHL Eastern Conference final with a 3-2 win over Barrie. Alex Lepkowski finished with an even rating for the losing side as neither of the Sabres prospects were on the ice for any of the game's goals. The two clubs will go back at it Saturday in Belleville.

In AHL action, David Leggio made 35 stops and Cody McCormick added a late power play goal as Rochester was defeated by Toronto 4-1. Leggio was again fantastic for the Amerks, making many tough stops including one for the highlight reels on a Jerry D'Amigo breakway, while Johan Larsson (career-low) and Jerome Gauthier-Leduc were two of four Amerks to log a minus-three rating. Daniel Catenacci, who reported to the Amerks earlier in the week, did not dress.

4/17 Recap: Armia gets a helper as Aces even series

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 04:52:00 PDT

Joel Armia recorded an assist Wednesday as Assat Pori evened the SM-Liiga championship series at one game each with a 5-1 victory over Tappara Tampere. The 6-foot-3 striker's secondary helper on a late power play gives him seven points (3+4) through 12 playoff outings. Armia's Aces will look to keep the momentum going when the series resumes Friday in Tampere.

4/15 Recap: Armia empty in Aces' opening loss

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 05:15:00 PDT

Joel Armia punched four shots towards the net Monday but was unable to light the lamp as Assat Pori opened the 2013 SM-Liiga championship series with a 2-1 loss to Tappara Tampere. The scoring line winger skated for 21:29 of action in the loss, his second-most time-on-ice in a non-overtime tilt this season, but the Aces surrendered a tip goal through traffic with just five ticks left on the clock to take the loss. Armia and the Aces will look to even the series in Wednesday's game two.

4/14 Recap: Cat done with Attack; Girgensons finds net

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 16:10:00 PDT

Dan Catenacci saw his junior season come to an end Sunday as Owen Sound was bested by Plymouth 3-1 in game six of the OHL Western Conference semifinal. The Attack's leading scorer in the regular season, Catenacci collected three goals, nine points, and 28 penalty minutes in 12 playoff tilts, with just 1+2 in the 4-2 series loss to the Whalers.

With his tour of duty in Owen Sound complete, it's expected that the speedy forward will next report to the AHL's Rochester Americans. Catenacci joined the Amerks at the end of last season, but didn't see any action after taking a puck off the ankle in his final junior game. He was out going hard in the final shift Sunday, so he should arrive healthy and ready to go.

In the AHL, Zemgus Girgensons scored his sixth goal of the year and Matt Hackett made 36 saves as Rochester earned a 3-2 come-from-behind victory at Albany. Cody McCormick and Mark Mancari propelled the Amerks with third period strikes, in the process giving Hackett wins in both of his starts since arriving in the Sabres organization. Johan Larsson assisted on the Girgensons tally to give him four points (1+3) and two shootout goals in six appearances with the Amerks.

The win was a nice rebound for the Amerks following a 5-1 drubbing in Syracuse on Saturday. Alex Biega scored the lone Amerks goal. David Leggio made 28 saves to move to 37-23-9-1 on the year.

In Saturday USHL play, Judd Peterson wrapped up his 2012-13 campaign with a minus-one rating as Cedar Rapids was defeated by Team USA 3-2 in shootout. Peterson racked up 11 goals and 26 points in 46 games as a Jr. A rookie, with his destination for next season yet to be determined.

Sabres go back to school, ink Ruhwedel

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 08:46:00 PDT

The Buffalo Sabres are set to announce the signing of University of Massachusetts-Lowell defenseman Chad Ruhwedel to a two-year entry-level contract.

A 5'11" native of San Diego, CA, Ruhwedel was recently named a first team CCM All-American after netting seven goals, 23 points, and a plus-16 rating in his third season with the River Hawks. The USHL product has developed a reputation as a very strong defensive player with good skating skills, a nice wrist shot, and an ability to provide a good push from the back end. The River Hawks functioned as one of the stingiest defensive groups in 2012-13 en route to gaining a berth in the NCAA Frozen Four before falling to Yale. Ruhwedel, an assistant captain, was a huge part of their own-zone success with his smarts and steady decision making.

The 22-year old Ruhwedel, who will forego his final year of NCAA eligibility, could make his professional debut with the Sabres over the weekend. He joins Mike Kostka (UMass - 2008), Brian Flynn (Maine - 2012), and Tim Schaller (Providence - 2013) as recent Hockey East products to earn free agent contracts from the Sabres organization.

4/12 Recap: Grigo scores as Remparts get bounced; Leggio magnificent

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 07:07:00 PDT

Mikhail Grigorenko scored a goal but saw his 2012-13 campaign come to a close - his junior one anyways - as Quebec was shellacked by Rouyn-Noranda 6-1 in game five of their QMJHL second round series. Former Remparts forward Nikita Kucherov, who was dealt to R-N by Quebec prior to the trade deadline, came back to haunt his old club with a hat trick and three assists as the Huskies used their speed to dictate tempo and keep Patrick Roy's squad on its heels for most of the series. After finishing the playoffs with five goals and 14 points through 11 contests, Grigorenko will likely extend his season back in the professional ranks with either Buffalo or Rochester of the AHL. The destination should be known shortly with regular season schedules winding down for both.

In the OHL, Dan Catenacci (-3, 6 PIM) was shut down for the second time in three games as Owen Sound was pasted by Plymouth 5-0. Trailing the semifinal series 3-2, the Attack will need a victory in Sunday's game six to stay alive for a chance to face London in the conference final.

In the USHL, Judd Peterson raced down and scored a short-handed goal to help Cedar Rapids to a 2-1 victory over Team USA. The second--period tally was Peterson's 11th of the year with just one game remaining. Following the game, Peterson said he was still unsure if he'll return to Cedar Rapids for a second season next fall or enter the NCAA ranks with St. Cloud State. There is still time for both sides to mull that over, but the RoughRiders look to be set-up well for next year despite not qualifying for this year's playoffs.

In the AHL, David Leggio was magnificent in stopping 40 of 42 shots to lead Rochester to a 3-2 shootout victory over Oklahoma City. Cody McCormick and Nick Tarnasky scored in regulation for the Amerks, while Johan Larsson and Colin Jacobs capped the victory with shootout marks. Max Legualt recorded two assists for the Amerks. Matt MacKenzie chipped in with a helper for his fourth point of the year (0+4). The victory moves the Amerks ahead of the Barons and into fifth place in the Western Conference heading into the final five games of the regular season. Rochester visits Syracuse on Saturday.

In Thursday action, Brady Austin picked up an assist as Belleville closed out their semifinal round with a 5-0 victory over Sudbury. Austin's steady blueline play had seen him rack up five assists and a plus-12 rating through 10 playoff tilts. The Bulls take the series in four games, setting up an OHL Eastern Conference final versus Barrie beginning next Friday.

4/10 Recap: Grigorenko scores as Remparts slide to brink

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 04:47:00 PDT

Mikhail Grigorenko snagged a goal in the final minute of the opening frame Wednesday but Quebec blew a three-goal lead to take a 5-4 loss to Rouyn-Noranda. Trailing the series 3-1, Quebec will look to fend off elimination on the road in Friday's game five. The power play strike snapped a three-game point drought for Grigorenko, his longest since arriving in North American two seasons ago to play for Patrick Roy's Remparts.

Dan Catenacci (-2) scored his third goal of the playoffs as Owen Sound held on for a 4-3 win over Plymouth. The speedy scorer has nine points (3+6) through 10 post-seasons contests, while being whistled for a minor penalty in eight of them for a total of 22 PIM. The Owen Sound victory evens the Western Conference semifinal at two games apiece with the series shifting back to Plymouth for Friday's game five.

4/9 Recap: Lepkowski's rare tally helps Colts to sweep

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 18:13:00 PDT

Alex Lepkowski scored his first goal of the season Tuesday as Barrie doubled Oshawa 4-2 to earn the second round playoff sweep of the Generals. Lepkowski, who went through 60 regular season appearances without a goal, hadn't scored since the last April 15 in a 2012 playoff tilt versus Ottawa. The Colts move to the OHL Eastern Conference final where they'll take on the winner of Belleville-Sudbury.

Brady Austin finished with an even rating as Belleville pitched a 4-0 shutout of Sudbury. The Bulls will go for the sweep Thursday night in Sudbury.

Dan Catenacci (-1, 4 PIM) was kept off the scoresheet as Owen Sound lost to Plymouth 6-3. The clubs will go back at it Wednesday with the Attack trailing the Whalers 2-1.

In the QMJHL, Mikhail Grigorenko failed to record a point for the third straight game as Quebec was defeated by Rouyn-Noranda 5-2. The drought is the longest for Grigorenko is a Remparts uniform since arriving in North America two seasons ago. The Remparts trail the series 2-1 entering Wednesday's game four.

On Monday, Joel Armia fired five shots in 17:26 of work as Assat advanced to the SM-Liiga championship with a 1-0 shutout victory over JYP. The Aces will square off with Tappara Tampere, who before a shoulder injury were led by heralded 2013 draft prospect Aleksander Barkov, in a best-of-seven series beginning next Monday to determine a Finnish league champion.

4/7 Recap: Amerks win in shootout

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 05:47:00 PDT

In Sunday action, Zemgus Girgensons scored his fifth goal of the year shorthanded, and Matt Hackett made 39 saves in his debut as Rochester earned a 3-2 shootout victory at Albany. Nick Crawford added a regulation tally, while Johan Larsson, Corey Tropp, and Colin Jacobs scored in the shootout to seal the victory. The Amerks host Oklahoma City on Friday.

In the OHL, Dan Catenacci notched an assist as Owen Sound evened their best-of-seven second round series with a 3-1 win at Plymouth. The helper gives Catenacci eight points (2+6) through eight post-season contests. Game three is set for for Tuesday in Owen Sound.

Brady Austin finished plus-one as Belleville downed Sudbury 4-1. Austin has four assists and a plus-10 rating through eight playoff tilts. The Bulls take a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference seminfinal heading into Tuesday's game three.

Alex Lepkowski continued his tough defensive play as Barrie blanked Oshawa 4-0. The Colts take a commanding 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal. They'll go for the sweep Tuesday in Oshawa.

4/6 Recap: Jacobs cashes in shootout; Grigo, Armia quieted

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 05:47:00 PDT

Colin Jacobs supplied two assists and the shootout winner Saturday to guide Rochester past Adirondack 5-4. Patrick Rissmiler, Frederick Roy, and Mark Mancari also scored for the Amerks, while Drew Schiestel lit the lamp for both his first AHL mark and first two-game point streak since December 2011. David Leggio made 39 saves for his league-best 36th victory of the season. The Amerks continue their three-game weekend Sunday at Albany.

In Finland, Joel Armia unloaded 11 shots in 19:46 of work as Assat was edged by JYP 2-1. The Aces, who lead the SM-Liiga semifinal 3-1, will look to close out the defending champions in Monday's game five. The winner will advance to the league championship to face Tappara, who swept Lukko on Saturday. Armia's postseason has been marked by up and down play en route to collecting three goals and six points in nine outings.

In the QMJHL, Mikhail Grigorenko (+2, 23.5% faceoffs) failed to record a point for the second straight game as Quebec downed Rouyn-Noranda 4-2 to even the second round series at one game apiece. Despite the two-game lull, Grigorenko has amassed three goals and 12 points through eight post-season contests. Adam Erne ('13) scored twice and added an assist to pace the Remparts. The teams will convene on Tuesday for a pivotal game three.

4/5 Recap: Armia paces Aces; Larsson scores in debut

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 05:24:00 PDT

Joel Armia scored a goal and an assist Friday to earn the game's number two star as Assat skated to a 4-1 win over JYP to take a commanding three-game lead in the SM-Liiga semifinal round. Armia's post-season work has yielded three goals and six points through eight games for the Aces, who'll go for the series sweep on Saturday and a berth in the league championship.

In AHL play, Johan Larsson notched a goal in his first game in an Amerks uniform and 16th of the 2012-13 season but Rochester was defeated by Lake Erie 3-1. Drew Schiestel and Fredonia, NY native Nick Bailen (first AHL game) drew assists on the goal, while David Leggio made 21 saves to slip to 35-22-1 on the year. The Amerks visit Adirondack on Friday sitting in seventh place in the Western Conference standings with eight games left to play.

In the OHL playoffs, Dan Catenacci recorded an assist as Owen Sound lost to Plymouth 4-1. The Attack took a 1-0 lead into the third period, only to surrender four unanswered goals to lose the Western Conference semifinal opener. Catenacci's helper gives him seven points (2+5) in seven post-season tilts. Game two is Sunday in Plymouth.

Brady Austin (+2) notched an assist as Belleville downed Sudbury 6-3. The big, mobile defender has amassed four assists and a plus-nine rating through the Bulls' first seven playoff games. Belleville leads the second round series 1-0 with game two taking place Sunday.

Alex Lepkowski finished with a minus-one rating as Barrie defeated Oshawa 4-1. The second-seeded Colts take a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal with game three set for Sunday.

In the QMJHL, Mikhail Grigorenko (-3) saw his six-game playoff point streak come to an end as Quebec opened the second round of the QMJHL playoffs with a 6-1 loss to Rouyn-Noranda. Grigorenko has piled up three goals and 12 points in six post-season tilts. Game two is Sunday in Quebec.

Judd Peterson (-1) was unable to connect as Cedar Rapids dropped a 2-1 overtime decision to Chicago. The RoughRiders visit Waterloo on Friday.

4/3 Recap: Ullmark strong for Sweden; Colts take lead

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 19:41:00 PDT

Linus Ullmark made 23 saves Wednesday as the Swedish National Team opened their tune-up schedule for the IIHF World Championship with a 6-1 victory over Slovakia. The 19-year old stopper allowed just a power play goal to former Penguins prospect Michal Sersen in his men's team debut. The two clubs will play it back on Friday before Team Sweden heads Riga for a pair of tilts versus Latvia.

Joel Armia collected five shots on goal in 17:57 of work as Assat blanked JYP 2-0 in game two of the SM-Liiga semifinal. The Aces take a 2-0 series advantage with the clubs heading back to Jyvaskyla to Friday's game three.

In the OHL playoffs, Alex Lepkowski was even in top-pair duty as Barrie defeated Oshawa 4-3 in overtime. The victory gives the Colts a 1-0 advantage in the Eastern Conference semifinal with game two coming Friday in Barrie.

4/1 Recap: Ullmark gets silver

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 05:49:00 PDT

Linus Ullmark made 27 saves Monday as MODO J20 fell in the SuperElit championship game 4-3 to HV71. Ullmark ends his junior league post-season with a 4-1 record, while posting a 1.39 GAA and a .947 save%. The 19-year old stopper now heads to Sweden's national team training camp for exhibition tilts versus Slovakia on Wednesday and Friday.

In Finland, Joel Armia recorded an assist Monday as Assat opened the SM-Liiga semifinal round with a 4-3 double-overtime victory over JYP. Armia directed 16 shots to the net in 26:32 of work, while former Sabres forward Mike Ryan notched the game winner. Game two goes down Wednesday.

In the OHL, Brady Austin finished plus-one Monday as Belleville skated to a 3-1 victory over Mississauga. The Bulls take the opening round series in six games, setting up a Eastern Conference semifinal versus Sudbury starting on Friday.

In the WHL, Logan Nelson was minus-one as Victoria was eliminated from the playoffs with a 6-2 loss to Kamloops. The big forward registered two goals and six points in the six-game series loss following a 43-point (14+29) regular season.

Buffalo Sabres 2013 Spring Prospect Rankings

noreply@blogger.com (Kris Baker) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 22:19:00 PDT

It's time once again for a top-to-bottom evaluation of the Buffalo Sabres prospects, an annual exercise where we comb through a pile of puzzle pieces and analyze where each one fits.

The Sabres boast a diverse group of forward prospects, with the upper tier blending elements of creativity, speed, and power. The club's transformation from having limited center depth to one that is richer down the middle is noteworthy for an organization that arguably had one of the weakest 1-4 center depth in recent years. If there is a defined need, it's a lack of natural scoring depth down the wings, perhaps setting up an area of focus as the 2013 draft strategy is composed. Potential top-line threats with good size are in place, but additional artillery is required.

On the back end, the Sabres have three solid minute-eaters and a power play specialist that grade out well for full-time NHL duty, followed by a fair amount of mid-range depth to develop. The Sabres lost some youth when dealing T.J. Brennan to Florida, but the blue line still projects to have a dependable variety of skills, especially when bundling 23-year old Tyler Myers into the mix.

In the crease, franchise cornerstone Ryan Miller continues to grind away in a mostly one-man show with just one year left on his contract. The deadline acquisition of Matt Hackett greatly enhances the overall depth at the position while the Sabres wait for one of their young netminders to jump out as the leading understudy. The story likely won't be written until the 2013-14 season.

***

The below rankings are formulated first by slotting each player based on top potential, and then modifying their position up or down based on their likelihood of achieving. This is the fairest method of doing side-by-side evaluations for players ranging in age from 18-23, and thus the order is not based on who's closest to appearing in the NHL.

For definition, a prospect is judged to be a player who begins a post-draft season between the ages of 18-23, whose NHL rights are owned by the Buffalo, and who has played fewer than 50 NHL games.

***

The Sabres top prospects at a glance:

1 - Mikhail Grigorenko (LC)
2 - Joel Armia (RW)
3 - Mark Pysyk (RHD)
4 - Zemgus Girgensons (LC/W)
5 - Marcus Foligno (LW)
6 - Jake McCabe (LHD)
7 - Johan Larsson (LC)
8 - Brayden McNabb (LHD)
9 - Matt Hackett (G)

10 - Dan Catenacci (LC)

11 - Corey Tropp (RW)
12 - Jerome Gauthier-Leduc (RHD)
13 - Justin Kea (LC)
14 - Linus Ullmark (G)

15 - Kevin Sundher (LC)
16 - Matt MacKenzie (RHD)
17 - Andrey Makarov (G)
18 - Alex Lepkowski (LHD)
19 - Logan Nelson (RC/W)
20 - Tim Schaller (LC)
21 - Phil Varone (LC)
22 - Nathan Lieuwen (G)
23 - Connor Knapp (G)
24 - Colin Jacobs (RC)
25 - Brady Austin (LHD)
NR - Nick Crawford (LHD)
NR - Drew Schiestel (LHD)
NR - Jonathan Parker (RW)
NR - Christian Isackson (C/RW)
NR - Judd Peterson (RC)
NR - Brad Navin (LW)
NR - Shawn Szydlowski (RW)
NR - Jacob Lagace (LW)
NR - Riley Boychuk (LW)
NR - Mark Adams (RHD)

Not ranked
Luke Adam (NHL games)
Brian Flynn (age 24)
Dennis Persson (graduated)
Alex Biega (graduated)
Frederick Roy (AHL-only deal)
Corey Fienhage (AHL-only deal)
T.J. Brennan (traded)

Quick Summary

Grigorenko and Armia in the top two spots shouldn't be much of a shocker given the offensive potential they represent. The real debate begins thereafter. Pysyk's smarts, skating game, and overall top-pair potential give him a slight edge over Girgensons' edgy power. Girgensons' continued development could make him primed to leapfrog, perhaps even ahead of player like Armia. So far so good. but we're not there yet.

The Foligno-McCabe-Larsson-McNabb-Hackett cluster is a bit to digest, but Foligno's leadership value and immediate impact in the paint earn him a spot in the top-five. McCabe's skating and all-situations competency was impressive in his first post-draft year, while Swedish forward Larsson represents perhaps a "forward version" of McCabe. McNabb took a bit to find his range in his sophomore professional year, but like McCabe a few spots ahead, projects to top-four NHL duty. Hackett has all the required tools of an NHL starter.

Catenacci's wheels, polish, and versatility represent a savory mix for an aspiring NHLer. Without the tenacity, he couldn't be rated ahead of a player like Tropp, whose work ethic and timely offense was clearly missed by the Sabres. Leduc's rookie year has seen its share of bumps but still rounds out the top-10 given the offensive potential in play.

The next pod sees Kea challenging the top-10 with a tough, physical style, excellent skating game, and firm checking line projection. Ullmark appears as the top-ranked goaltender following a sensational development season. The speedy Sundher follows on his heels with a good rookie ramp-up that was disrupted by a late-season injury.

MacKenzie's blend keeps him in striking range while he looks to gain consistency entering the final year of his ELC. Makarov's big-game ability has him well-positioned among his peers, with room to move up within the top-15 with a response to next-level coaching.

Lepkowski brings strong skating and sturdy D to the pipeline, while Nelson follows right behind with speed, peskiness, and offensive upside. Newly signed Schaller enters the mix as a big-bodied defensive forward to round out the top-20, just a few ticks ahead of smallish, skilled distributor Varone and athletic rookie netminder Lieuwen.

PROFILES

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1 - Mikhail Grigorenko
LC | Quebec Remparts (QMJHL)

6’2”, 191 lbs. | 5/16/94

2012, first round (12^th overall)

A natural centerman, Grigorenko immediately became the Sabres top prospect upon being drafted. The smooth, creative Russian was potent in the first half of 2012-13, potting 29 goals in 30 games with the Quebec Remparts before performing as Russia's top forward at the 2013 World Junior Championship with six points (2+4) and team-best 33 shots on goal en route to a bronze medal finish.

Grigorenko's elite vision, instincts, and marksmanship at the junior level, along with the Sabres need for skilled center depth, allowed him to break through for a 22-game look in the compressed NHL season. He'd score a goal and four assists in two months of work as an 18-year old NHL rookie before being returned to Quebec to participate in the intense, competitive playoff environment.

Grigorenko was challenged to work his way into regular NHL shifts, but the on-the-job training didn't translate into game minutes. He showed flashes of playmaking hands, but his strength and assertiveness wasn't where it needed to be. He used his stick defensively, but needed to be tougher on the puck. Continued work on his skating, greater attention to detail away from the puck, and embracing contact will only increase his effectiveness moving forward.

Regardless of early bumps, good things seem be just around the corner. The dangerous distributor has a good idea of what it's going to take to succeed. It's on him to have a strong summer of workouts and re-claim his NHL roster spot in 2013-14, and it's on the Sabres coaching staff to continue fostering the development of what looks to be a legitimate top-line center.

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2 - Joel Armia
RW | Assat Pori (SM-Liiga)

6’3”, 193 lbs. | 5/31/93

2011, first round (16^th overall)

A sharp-shooting right winger with excellent size, Armia is wired for offense. His excellent skating ability and one-on-one skill make him a deadly threat in the transition game, and when cycling, the Pori, Finland native resembles powerful and skilled NHLers, perhaps a shade quicker. He's gotten better at winning corner battles, and he gets from the corner to the crease in a snap to create traffic and tip incoming shots.

Armia, who entered 2012-13 with added bulk and a greater offensive role for Assat, fought through a pair of concussion episodes in the first half, but his confidence went unhampered. He forged ahead to post six goals and 12 points at the 2013 World Junior Championship - the second-highest total of all tourney scorers - before closing the SM-Liiga regular season with seven goals and 13 points in his final 10 games.

Signed by the Sabres to a three-year contract, Armia will be charged to achieve offensive consistency upon making his North American entry. It's no coincidence that he has been at his best when skating hard on the forecheck, a trait that has seen him earn a two-minute per game increase in his average time on ice in 2012-13. Consistently showing that willingness while making quicker decisions in a smaller offensive zone could see the 19-year old reach his ceiling of scoring line sniper, especially if paired with a responsible two-way center.

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3 - Mark Pysyk
RHD | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’2”, 188 lbs. | 1/11/92

2010, first round (23^rd overall)

An exceptionally smart player with excellent skating skills, Pysyk’s two-way value and versatility makes him a steadying piece in the Sabres pipeline. You can never have enough poised, responsible players on the blueline, and Pysyk executes with confidence and simplicity, making “little plays” that can be sometimes overlooked as a catalyst to the team's on-ice flow.

While it has generally been a seamless transition for the former face of the WHL's Oil Kings, the Edmonton native was no exception to the expected rookie growing pains, as waning consistency caused Ron Rolston to level-set his role with a two-game sitdown following the Christmas break. Pysyk responded at a key segment of his rookie year, posting a plus-seven rating in his next 20 games including just three "minus" outings leading up to first NHL recall in March.

The former face of the Edmonton Oil Kings franchise looks to be on the verge of a breakthrough. Strength and durability have been tested as he builds his pro legs, but early results prove that Pysyk's overall skill and aptitude have him well-positioned for a future as a top-four NHL defenseman, possibly as early as the 2013-14 season.

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4 - Zemgus Girgensons
LC/W | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’2”, 198 lbs. | 1/5/94

2012, first round (14^th overall)

An 18-year old playing in the ultra-competitive AHL is no small feat, especially with younger NHL talent flooding the ice during the work stoppage, but Girgensons has gradually showed more assertiveness with each block of games in his rookie professional season.

In mid-January, one night after logging the first multi-point game as a professional and just when it seemed like the a developmental spike was forthcoming, an elbow from Blue Jackets prospect Richard Panik put the Latvian on the IR with a concussion, essentially derailing the rookie's progress for a month. With strength and maturity centering his game, Girgensons resumed his role as a top-six winger and continued to build with each passing game to keep his rookie year moving in the right direction.

An intense, hard working player with a gritty edge and a decent set of mitts, Girgensons' effort and push-back style represent a compelling yin to the skilled yang of Grigorenko, setting up the potential for a well-balanced 1-2 punch if a an expected move back to center takes place. By the end of his rookie campaign, it’s expected that his adjustment to the speed and physicality of the pro game, and not any statistical performance, will confirm that the decision to have him bypass the college game was positive for both he and the organization.

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5 - Marcus Foligno
LW | Buffalo Sabres (NHL)

6’3”, 227 lbs. | 8/10/91

2009, fourth round (104^th overall)

A raw skilled, “wrecking ball” type of player when picked in the fourth round of the 2009 draft, Foligno is the poster child for the term “development” as seen by his early NHL success and carry-over into the start of the 2012-13 year.

Foligno’s physical style provides a solid foundation for his refined offensive skill set. He likes to create chaos around the net, has adequate finishing skills, and an underrated passing ability. If you summarize his body of work since being drafted, he’s been big on the forecheck while becoming increasingly comfortable with the puck on his stick.

Future captain material is in play with Foligno, and much like his father, the potential is there for a special, blue collar presence that will stick in the minds of Sabres fans long after his playing days are over. A second-line forward if the scoring develops or a comfortable third-line banger, Foligno will play wherever his coach tells him and take on any challenge with a team-first mentality.

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6 - Jake McCabe
LHD | University of Wisconsin Badgers (WCHA)

6’1”, 200 lbs. | 10/12/93

2012, second round (44^th overall)

Steady and reliable, the all-situations McCabe has a strong two-way base blending puck-moving ability with a hard-working defensive style. Perhaps the best example of his overall ability was at the 2013 World Junior Championship, where he notched three goals, six points, and a team-best plus-nine rating to help Team USA to the gold medal.

The Eau Claire, Wis. native is a high-effort competitor with great footwork and awareness. Mix in leadership skills, as evidenced by his World Junior captaincy, and you have a classic defenseman who can do a little bit of everything from blocking shots to zipping crisp passes out of the zone. The Wisconsin staff praises his ability to act as "a coach on the ice", a trait which sets the table nicely for the next stages of his development.

A candidate for key even-strength minutes as a pro, McCabe is also an effective distributor on the power play, possessing vision to find teammates at the side of the net while wielding a heavy shot from the point. The U.S. NTSP product will likely remain in Madison for at least one more year to work on strength development and overall style maturation as the Badgers kick off play in the newly formed Big 10 Hockey Conference.

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7 - Johan Larsson
LC | Rochester Americans (AHL)
6'0", 198 lbs. | 7/25/92
Acquired via trade with MIN 4/3/2013
originally selected 2010, second round (56th overall)

A skilled, two-way center with underrated offensive upside, Larsson does a little bit of everything, from adding timely scoring, to shutting down the opposition's top line, to chipping in on both sides of special teams. The Sabres were no doubt targeting his versatile blend in the Jason Pominville trade discussions, for the former SEL Rookie of the Year looks the part of a legitimate third-line center at the NHL level with the potential to add some muscle to the scoring line wings.

The captain of Sweden's gold medal winning squad at the 2012 World Junior Championship, Larsson initially caught the eye of NHL scouts the summer before at Team USA's National Junior Evaluation Camp, where he proved to be a hard working, physical playmaker with softs hands and a gallop to drive around the edge. Larsson's low center of gravity helps him gain position around the crease, where he has shown a keen ability at tipping pucks. Using that low base more often along the walls will give him increased value on the forecheck and likely bring to life an uptick in his offensive numbers. Whether he's a center or wing, Larsson's all-around game represents a safe bet to lock down a spot in among the Sabres' top-nine forwards as soon as 2013-14.

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8 - Brayden McNabb
LHD | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’5”, 212 lbs. | 1/21/91

2009, third round (66^th overall)

McNabb has shown the ability to play a tough, stay-at-home game at the NHL level, so the plan entering year two of his entry-level deal was to work the farm while the Sabres sorted out the veteran numbers on the top club. The Saskatchewan native held up his end of the bargain, overcoming an uneven start to resume his high-level of play in Rochester, only to suffer a significant knee injury in a late-March game at Houston.

A point machine at the major junior level thanks to an ability to punch booming slap shots through from the point (especially on the PP), McNabb's rugged crease protection and use of his long stick fill a key defensive role while letting other more gifted skaters carry the mail out up ice. The simpler the better, as playing big and getting the puck to safety will allow him his share of both minutes and point opportunities as his career takes off.

The depth of the injury is yet to be known, but for now there is no reason to think that McNabb, whose toughness adds to an image that the Sabres need to build, won't comfortably enjoy a full-time, top-four residence in Buffalo.

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9 - Matt Hackett
G | Rochester Americans (AHL)
6'2", 179 lbs. | 3/7/90
Acquired via trade with MIN 4/3/2013
originally selected 2009, third round (77th overall)

Watching Hackett at work in his crease reveals a big-framed, fluid athlete who has all the potential to be a full-time NHL goaltender. A veteran of 13 NHL contests through his first two professional seasons, the former Plymouth Whalers stalwart is looking to be just the third goaltender drafted out of the OHL since 2002 to play in 20 NHL games. While history isn't on the side of his developmental stomping grounds, it's easy to visualize Hackett doing good things in a blue and gold sweater.

The nephew of former big league netminder Jeff, Hackett has excellent reflexes and side-to-side quickness, using a powerful, controlled leg push that keeps him square in the blue paint. The key to his game is not sinking in his butterfly. When he remains upright, he takes away the maximum amount of net and more pucks hit him. Going to his belly allows him to cover space outward, but it also leaves the top of the net open.

It will be interesting to see what happens with reigning Amerks MVP David Leggio (UFA) and Jhonas Enroth (RFA) entering the offseason. Both can't be terribly excited by Hackett's arrival, but the competition should make for some interesting discussions as the Sabres set themselves up for the potential of a post-Miller era.

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10 - Dan Catenacci
LC | Owen Sound Attack (OHL)

5’10”, 191 lbs. | 3/9/93

2011, third round (77^th overall)

A speedy forward who plays without fear, Catenacci has the attitude and polished offensive skills to make an impact at the NHL level. He can finish plays in high traffic, but just as important has been his added value on the penalty kill, at the faceoff circle, and in the corners where he willingly throws his average-sized frame around to compete for pucks.

Catenacci has used his final year of junior to refine his all around game, so for now it’s best to focus on the versatility he can bring to a lineup thanks to his explosive first three steps. Whether or not he’s able to crack second line duty at the NHL level, Catenacci has the mix and moxie to compete even as a lower-line forward.

Catenacci was among the final cuts for Team Canada’s 2013 World Junior entry, but likely would have earned a role if the NHL had been in business. He's signed and good to go for Rochester as soon as the end of the Attack's 2012-13 season, so for now the expectations are to maintain his intensity and improve his discipline (he has been among the league leaders in minor penalties in 2012-13) as he gets his pro career started.

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11 - Corey Tropp
RW | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’0”, 195 lbs. | 7/25/89

2007, third round (89^th overall)

An effort guy that knows what to do when the puck is on his stick, Tropp's blend of grit and hands remains a key, versatile component for what the Sabres are trying to become.

The Michigan State product suffered what many thought to be a season-ending knee injury on opening night of the 2012-13 campaign thanks to a Radko Gudas hip check, but once again his hard-working style emerged with a remarkable recovery that saw him get back in the lineup for the Amerks' stretch run.

At his peak, Tropp could be one of those players that you can’t win without. We’ve seen him pin the puck on the boards and wear guys down. We’ve seen him slide to block shots. We’ve seen him fight. We’ve seen him handle the puck and score tough goals. And to think we’ve yet to see the full offensive potential come to fruition from the former 20-goal college scorer. That’s worth a spot in the top 10.

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12 - Jerome Gauthier-Leduc
RHD | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’1”, 192 lbs. | 7/30/92

2010, third round (68^th overall)

An offensive-minded defenseman who can pound the puck from the point, Gauthier-Leduc turned pro following a prolific junior season with the Rimouski Oceanic that saw him lead all QMJHL defensemen with 28 goals and 74 points, along the way setting a league record for defenseman with an eight-game goal streak.

Leduc, who missed the first month and a half of the schedule with a lower body injury, scored a goal in his November debut before settling in to endure the expected rookie bumps and scratches. While adjusting to two-way game speed, a main focus moving forward will be positioning and decision making. Perhaps the greatest challenge, though, will be handling the bigger, physical forwards in the pressure areas.

Coaching and patience will be key to bringing out the best in the Quebec City native. The "best" is likely a #4/#5 NHL defender who can add to the power play and fill a lane on the even-strength rush. For now you want to break down his game and build out from his own zone out to fortify the base expectations of an everyday professional.

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13 - Justin Kea
LC | Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

6’4”, 206 lbs. | 2/7/94

2012, third round (73^rd overall)

A big, strong, defensive-minded centerman, Kea debuts on the rankings rather high for a player who scored just seven goals in his first two OHL seasons. The projection is primarily derived from his skating, checking game, and year-over-year improvement -- a recipe creating a high probability of achieving his potential of grinding, defensive power forward. Exceeding expectations hinges on the continued development of his offensive game.

Much like Girgensons, however, it’s wiser to scrutinize what’s happening beyond the stat sheet to firmly measure Kea's progress and future role. He's been voted as one of the better faceoff performers in the OHL. He goes down to block shots. He defends his teammates. He's dangerous on the penalty kill. He throws it deep and goes hard in pursuit. On top it all, he comes through with hard-working offense and momentum changing hits when his team needs it most. Case in point, he has scored more goals while shorthanded (4) in his OHL career than he has on the power play (2).

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14 - Linus Ullmark
G | MODO Hockey (SEL)

6’3”, 198 lbs. | 7/31/93

2012, sixth round (163^rd overall)

The bulky backstop has enjoyed a significant rise since being drafted by the Sabres, popping up on the Swedish U20 national team radar over the summer before dominating at the J20 level and forcing his way on to MODO's SEL squad. Ullmark's promising development earned him a two-year extension with the club, making him a big part of their plans through 2014-15 season, as well as a spot on Sweden's preliminary National Team roster for the World Championships.

Standing 6-foot-3, Ullmark leverages excellent size, timing, and simple crease positioning. He's athletic and flexible with good balance and body control. He'll rarely over-challenge or over-commit, instead being very economical in his movement while sealing the ice with a strong modern technique. With a quick glove hand rounding off a solid foundation, improving his post-to-post quickness will only assist his cause. For now, though, his flow and rhythm in the crease are enough to tab him as the Sabres' top goaltending prospect.

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15 - Kevin Sundher
LC/W | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’0”, 177 lbs. | 1/8/92

2010, third round (75^th overall)

The speedy forward slowly eased his way into his first professional season, appearing in just two of the Amerks' first 10 games. When Cody Hodgson and Marcus Foligno left for the NHL (and Girgensons made a Jan trip to IR), Sundher moved from the fourth line into a prominent offensive role as a left-winger on line with veterans Kevin Porter and Mark Mancari. He immediately produced four points in five games, nearly doubling the five he had posted in his first 21 games.

Sundher competes hard and plays at a high pace, entering corners with tenacity to earn his playmaking looks. The six-footer improved his finishing skills during his time in the WHL but generally uses his agility and vision to operate with a pass-first mentality. Winning more one-on-one battles will be key moving forward, so the addition of upper-body strength will no doubt be a major factor in Sundher achieving the middle-line potential that his skills suggest.

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16 - Matt MacKenzie
RHD | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’2”, 198 lbs. | 10/15/91

2010, third round (83^rd overall)

Every young player endures an adjustment period to the pro game, and that is especially true for MacKenzie, thanks to both a nasty quad laceration that saw him skate in just 20 contests as an AHL rookie, and a crowded Amerks blueline that awaited him as he looked to play catch-up in year two of his entry-level deal.

The recipe for a success reads reps, reps, and more reps. A solid defender with a well-rounded skill base, MacKenzie made quick progress prior to his injuries as a rookie, and began his second season in the Amerks top-six alongside Joe Finley. Consistency will need to come around, but for now the Sabres have a defender who skates well, plays tough in his own zone, and possesses adequate up-ice vision. MacKenzie's mission entering the final year of his first deal is to simply earn a regular AHL workload and start getting the pieces in place to press for an NHL look.

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17 - Andrey Makarov
G | Saskatoon Blades (WHL)

6’1”, 178 lbs. | 4/20/93|

free agent (signed 9/14/12)

Following a 57-save performance in the gold medal game at the 2012 World Junior Championship, being named MVP of the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades, and a strong showing at the Canada-Russia Challenge in August, the undrafted Makarov was the last player signed to an NHL contract before the expiration of the NHL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Makarov was again a key Team Russia component for the second consecutive year at the 2013 World Junior Championship, producing 41-saves to earn Player of the Game honors in his first game against the USA before leading the way in the bronze medal win over Canada. Makarov rode the momentum back to Saskatoon, shrugging off an uneven start to uncork a club record 18-game winning streak to fuel the Blades to a division title before running out of gas in the first round of the playoffs.

A nimble, hybrid netminder, Makarov has the ability to "make himself big" to block the puck. He likes to bait shooters by giving his glove side and isn't afraid to use his noggin to stop a puck. Because of his base, Western League clubs often flooded the middle to capitalize on second and third opportunities. Along with smoothing out some inconsistency issues, improving rebound control and balance coming off the first save will be keys to success moving forward. Makarov’s skill and big game ability put him in good position to compete when he's ready to turn pro.

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18 - Alex Lepkowski
LHD | Barrie Colts (OHL)

6’4”, 204 lbs. | 4/8/93

2011, fifth round (137^th overall)

The chippy, stay-at-home anchor of the Colts’ top defensive pair, Lepkowski has developed into a leader on and off ice in Barrie. The 6-foot-4 defender has zeroed in defensively during his fourth year of junior, using his mobility to finish hits, gain position, and selectively join the transition game. As a whole, more board passes, fewer rushing attempts, and more hitting characterizes Lepkowski's post-draft body of work. Limiting stick penalties and

With good skating providing the foundation, Lepkowski has the defensive posture to contribute at the AHL level. He goes down to one knee to block shots and cut off passing lanes, while bringing a nasty demeanor to keep an edge around his net. He adds to the second-unit power play in Barrie, but he looks to be a guy that could fill a rugged organizational D role similar to how the Sabres are currently using Mike Weber.

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19 - Logan Nelson
RC | Victoria Royals (WHL)

6’2”, 187 lbs. | 9/9/93

2012, fifth round (133^rd overall)

The speedy, sometimes rambunctious Nelson is a puck hound who engages contact to make plays. The Minnesota native popped onto the scouting radar in 2011-12 as a WHL rookie, using his size and speed in open ice to win 50/50 battles and gain breakaway opportunities en route to posting a 23-goal season. Nelson was pencilled as a top-line winger for the Royals in 2012-13, but injuries forced a switch to the middle, where his production plateaued while facing top defensive pairs nightly.

Physical and pesky with decent offensive upside, Nelson has the tools for a supporting energy role at the pro level. He goes downhill to create pressure, taking the puck off the boards to the net with power, and he picks his spots to streak out of the zone the lead pass. His game isn’t always pretty, but he could be a compelling energy player if he can match a balanced backcheck to his aggressive offensive pursuit.

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20 - Tim Schaller
LC | Rochester Americans (AHL)
6'2", 205 lbs. | 11/16/90
Free agent (signed 3/28/13)

Named Hockey East's Best Defensive Forward in 2012-13, Schaller was signed as a 22-year old free agent following a four-year stay at Providence College. The Merrimack, NH native collected eight goals, 23 points, and a plus-seven rating as a senior while carving out a niche as a hard-working, two-way centerman with timely offensive instincts.

While Schaller's three-zone work with the Friars should translate well, the EJHL product also brings aptitude to the face off circle, winning 56-percent of his 564 draws as a senior. Bringing a player of Shaller's makeup into the mix strengthens the team's blue-collar foundation, and allows them to go out and find more skilled scorers to run up and down the wings.

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21 - Phil Varone
LC | Rochester Americans (AHL)

5’11”, 186 lbs. | 12/4/90

Free agent (signed 3/19/12)

A great skater and stickhandler, Varone entered the pro ranks with a bang in 2011-12, overcoming a slow start to ultimately lead the Amerks in points as a rookie and earn an entry-level contract with the Sabres. While not the biggest or fastest player on the ice, Varone can get space for himself and make nifty passes that bring out the shooting skills of his linemates.

With the arrival of Kevin Porter and Cody Hodgson in Rochester, Varone found himself bumped down the center ice pecking order, but he got his game going once the league thinned out post-lockout. It’s hard to project Varone out to anything more than a strong AHL producer, but continued growth in all areas could make him an outside candidate for spot duty as an injury fill-in at the NHL level.

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22 - Nathan Lieuwen
G | Greenvile Road Warriors (ECHL)

6’5”, 191 lbs. | 8/8/91

2011, sixth round (167^th overall)

A successful and sometimes dominant goalie at the junior level, Lieuwen entered his first professional season with a clean slate, with some thinking he could be facing a longer road ahead to winning an NHL job. Lieuwen's big frame and athleticism provide a functional base, allowing him to make some acrobatic saves, but by the end of his junior days more skilled shooters had developed a book where they'd get him moving side-to-side before shooting high.

With the Sabres looking to balance goalie development with AHL backup minutes, the British Columbia native began his career in the ECHL with a plan of being shuttled to Rochester at some point. Lieuwen endured an uneven start before settling in with a good run through the winter months to get the February call to Rochester. His first AHL starts were encouraging, likely giving him a firm grip on the Amerks' backup gig for the balance.

Lieuwen has shown good composure in the crease this season, using his size to track pucks through screens and remain in position. Focusing on technique while improving his footwork and lateral movement will be keys moving forward, but that longer road may have gotten a bit shorter entering year two of his entry-level deal.

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23 - Connor Knapp
G | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’6”, 225 lbs. | 5/1/90

2009, sixth round (164^th overall)

The tallest player at any position in the Sabres prospect ranks, 6-foot-6 backstop turned pro in 2012-13 after wrapping up his collegiate career with the by winning 14 of his final 19 starts with the Miami RedHawks (CCHA). Knapp spent the first half of his rookie year watching, winning one of six AHL starts while studying behind reigning team MVP David Leggio before getting dispatched to Greenville of the ECHL.

Knapp’s entry-level deal will best be spent simply trying to become a consistent, competent, and quicker pro netminder. Improving rebound control and exhibiting better puck tracking skills, all the way from the shooter’s stick to his body, will better Knapp’s chances of getting into a groove. The real mission is getting minutes. Despite closing with success at the collegiate level, Knapp played in just 84 games over his four years in Oxford (splitting time all four years with Cody Reichard, who received 92 starts) .

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24 - Colin Jacobs
RC/RW | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’2”, 207 lbs. | 1/20/93

2011, fourth round (107^th overall)

A talented forward with good size and puck skills, Jacobs recently completed his fourth junior season, leading the WHL's Prince George Cougars in scoring with 53 points (25+28) in 66 games while adding 98 penalty minutes. The Coppell, Texas native, who tied for 15th in the league with 13 power play goals, was rewarded with the team's Player of the Year honors at season's end.

Jacobs' first post-draft year (2011-12) with the Seattle Thunderbirds was partially washed out after off-season shoulder surgery caused him to miss the first three months of action. He'd finish the year with nine goals and 19 points in 44 games before being dealt to Prince George over the summer. With the Cougars failing to qualify for the playoffs, Jacobs signed an ATO (amateur tryout) with the Rochester Americans, giving the Sabres a closer look before making a final decision on his entry-level rights.

A powerful skater with an excellent shot, Jacobs will need to improve his acceleration with the puck to unlock his offensive potential. Bringing out some of the grit that was present in his junior days will inly help carve out a role. He scored a goal in his first game with Amerks, but the total body of work will be evaluated before determining Jacobs' go-forward fit.

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25 - Brady Austin
LHD | Belleville Bulls (OHL)
6'4", 220 lbs. |
2012, seventh round (193rd overall)

A mobile defender with good puck carrying skills, Austin covers a lot of ground in his own zone with a good set of feet and a long reach. Austin is strong positionally, with his size, toughness, and improvement in all three zones being a key factor to the Bulls defense being the stingiest in the OHL in 2012-13 with a league-low 167 goals against.

After spending time as a wing during his time in Erie, Austin's game was stabilized with a permanent move to on the blueline upon his arrival in Belleville for the 2011-12 season. He flourished as a full-time rearguard, earning a look from the Sabres at their draft combine leading up to his draft selection, while seeing his hard work rewarded with an "A" in his return to Belleville in 2012-13 as a 19-year old.

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Nick Crawford
LHD | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’1”, 191 lbs. | 2/23/90

2008, sixth round (164^th overall)

The 2009-10 runner-up for the OHL’s top defender, Crawford has settled in as a shutdown blueliner who executes with patience and steadiness. The Sabres organization has seen an influx of young defensemen over their last five drafts, giving the Caledon, Ont. native plenty of competition for minutes, but Crawford quietly went about his business, posting 13 goals and 53 points in his first two seasons while peers like Myers, McNabb, and Brennan grabbed a greater mindshare for Sabres prospects watchers.

Moving forward, Crawford projects as a solid AHL depth defender. He adds to both sides of the special teams coin while using his skating to make making safe, easy plays at even strength. There is no flash or overwhelming physical presence to Crawford's approach, but his smarts and experience make him a stabilizing veteran piece to the defensive corps entering his second professional deal.

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Drew Schiestel
LHD | Rochester Americans (AHL)

6’1”, 197 lbs. | 3/9/89

2007, second round (59^th overall)

A swift skating defender, Schiestel hasn’t been the same since a knee injury ended his 2010-11 season prematurely. At the time, Schiestel was an AHL All-Star knocking at the door of the NHL. Upon his return in 2011-12, the Hamilton, Ont. native was dealt another setback with another knee injury, all but crippling his ability to re-gain the necessary confidence to perform at a high level. He re-signed with the Sabres as a RFA for 2012-13, but has seen limited use as the club has brought along their younger guns.

Despite the troubles, Schiestel possesses a good set of tools. He can skate, shoot, and pass the puck with great success, a quality that has seen him platoon at times as an extra forward. He has a good handle that can see him take it end to end, but the limited reps received since the initial injury have hampered his decision making in his own zone. Among a crowded group of defensive prospects, Schiestel has hit work cut out for himself if he wants to claw his way back up the pecking order and could seek to re-start elsewhere.

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Jonathan Parker
RW | Rochester Americans (AHL)

5’10”, 195 lbs., 9/25/91

Free agent

Signed as a free agent following a 45-goal year with the WHL’s Prince Albert Raiders, Parker is still looking to find his range as a professional. His standout skill is his release of the puck, but bigger, quicker pro defenders have presented a challenge when finding opportunities to fire.

Parker moves well enough and possesses a bit of a bulldog mentality when fully engaged, willingly mucking for loose pucks and absorbing punishment to get chances. The compete level is there so the hopes is that he can get into a groove and develop some chemistry that brings out the best of his shooting skills.

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Christian Isackson
RW | C, University of Minnesota Golden Gophers (WCHA)

6’2”, 190 lbs. | 1/20/92

2010, seventh round (203^rd overall)

After dressing in just 11 games as a freshman, the versatile Isackson was active in every Gophers contest in 2012-13, shuffling up and down a forward lineup featuring eight NHL draft picks. The native Minnesotan got his year off to a strong start, scoring a pre-season hat trick prior to notching his first three collegiate points in an opening weekend sweep of Michigan State.

Strong on his skates with good playmaking skills, Isackson works hard to create, excelling when using his body to protect the puck and finding teammates with short passes. He has quick hands and vision in the slot area, setting the table for a larger offensive role as the Gophers head to the newly formed Big 10 Hockey Conference in 2013-14.

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Judd Peterson
RC/W | Cedar Rapids Roughriders (USHL)

6’0”, 190 lbs. | 9/27/23

2012, seventh round (204^th overall)

An accurate shooter with good acceleration, Peterson made steady improvement in his first Junior “A" season following a prolific 47-goal, 83-point season with Duluth-Marshall (MN) High School. Peterson's year was interrupted with an arm injury in February, but not before connecting on 16% of his shots to hit double-digits in goals for a RoughRiders squad that missed the playoffs for the first time since 1999-2000.

Peterson, who can play center but likely projects as a winger at the next levels, has a solid frame, good speed, and an ability to make tough plays, making him a compelling pro candidate once strength and quickness are added to the package. Committed to St. Cloud State, Peterson will likely move up a level to the brand new National Collegiate Hockey Conference in 2013-14.

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Brad Navin
LW | University of Wisconsin Badgers (WCHA)

6’3”, 200 lbs. | 6/5/92

2011, seventh round (197^th overall)

A big, grinding forward who dominated the Wisconsin high school ranks before being drafted, Navin has settled into a checking role over his first two years in Madison. He uses his frame along the wall and finishes his checks, but while showing an ability to get to the net and bury rebounds at his first Development Camp (July 2011), the Waupaca, Wis. native has yet to find his scoring knack at the WCHA level.

Navin is a lumbering skater who gets a lot of momentum once he gets going. He has average playmaking ability, instead relying on athleticism and power to work his assignments on every shift. The power-forward potential is there, so the Wisconsin staff will be counting on Navin to produce offense when given a bigger role as an upperclassman.

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Shawn Szydlowski
RW | Fort Worth Brahmas (CHL)

6’0”, 208 lbs. | 8/5/90

Free agent

Snakebitten with just one goal in his rookie professional season, the Michigan native was charged to get his game going in2012-13 by beginning the year with the CHL’s Forth Worth Brahmas. Szydlowski has been mostly looked to as a foot solider, using his skating and checking blend to produce a dependable two-way game.

You want to see players with NHL contracts scoring when on assignment. A former 41-goal scorer in the OHL, Szydlowski put together a four-game goal streak in late January that led to his eventual re-call to Rochester as the Sabres dipped into the Amerks pool to plug roster needs. Projecting to an organizational role player, Szydlowski will enter the final year of his entry-level deal looking to contribute as an AHL checker.

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Jacob Lagace
LW | Bakersfield Condors (ECHL)

5’11, 199 lbs. | 1/9/90

2008, fifth round (134^th overall)

Twice a 30-goal scorer in the QMJHL, Lagace shuttled between the AHL and ECHL in his first two seasons before playing out the final year of his entry-level contract with Bakersfield.

Lagace has used his skilled hands to collect 20 goals in 116 AHL contests, but slower feet and lack of overall quickness have pushed him down the depth chart. With the next wave of forward prospects entering the Sabres system, the Quebec native will likely land a minor league contract in 2013-14.

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Riley Boychuk
LW | Fort Worth Brahmas (CHL)

6’5”, 220 lbs. | 2/20/91

2010, seventh round (208^th overall)

A towering 6-foot-5 forward, Boychuk scored his share of goals in juniors by being a hard guy to deal with at the edge of the crease. More importantly, he was a bruiser on the forecheck, physically dominating his peers with punishing hits and doing some enforcing when duty called.

The Sabres have been waiting for those elements to emerge at the pro level from the Portland Winterhawks grad, and thus Boychuk was dispatched to the lower pro circuits in 2012-13 to get his reps and start building a case for a greater organizational role. Employing a greater physical dimension will afford more opportunties. Boychuk gets up and down well, but he'll need to consistently compete in the tougher spots on the ice in order to advance his career.

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Mark Adams
RHD | Providence College Friars

6’3”, 210 lbs. | 5/23/91

2009, fifth round (134^th overall)

Adams returned to the Friars blueline in 2012-13 following an injury-shortened sophomore year, playing in just seven games before undergoing season-ending knee surgery. Prior to injury, the Malden, MA native spent the majority of his time in the top-six paired with Pens prospect Alex Velishchek.

Adams has played a simple all-around game since joining Hockey East, using his above-average size and skating to chip the puck to safety while adding basic offensive elements from his blueline post. With a medical redshirt in place, Adams will have two more years to make his mark with a much-improved Friars program.

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