First-rounder Konsta Helenius made the jump from Finland to the American Hockey League at age 18.
Here is a quick update on the players selected in 2024:
Konsta Helenius – C – 14th overall
The Sabres were fortunate to have Helenius fall to them at 14th overall after many draft analysts labeled him nearly pro-ready after playing last season in the Finnish SM-Liiga, and for Finland at the Under-18’s, World Junior Championships and World Championships. After training camp, the 18-year-old center was assigned to the American Hockey League and so far, he has adapted quite well, with three goals in eight games with Rochester.
Adam Kleber – D – 42nd overall
A big right-handed blueliner, Kleber played two seasons in the USHL before being selected by the Sabres in the second round. The Minnesota native was selected by Team USA for the World Junior Summer Showcase, putting him on the radar for the upcoming WJC in Ottawa next month. In his freshman season with Minnesota-Duluth, the 18-year-old is pointless in seven games.
Brodie Ziemer – RW – 71st overall
A product of the US National Development Program, Ziemer is a favorite to make Team USA for the World Juniors in Ottawa, due to his high-energy play. As a freshman at the University of Minnesota, the 18-year-old winger has two goals in seven games.
Luke Osburn – D – 108th overall
Osburn was the second of four Sabres defensive draft picks in 2024. The 6’1”, 183 lb. blueliner is committed to play for the University of Wisconsin next season and is playing his second season for Youngstown of the USHL. In 12 games, he has four points (1 goal, 3 assists).
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