Buffalo, N.Y. (WGR Sports Radio 550) – The Buffalo Sabres have signed this year’s first-round pick, Konsta Helenius, to his three-year, entry-level contract.
The Sabres selected Helenius with the 14th overall pick in Round 1 of the draft just about two weeks ago. According to one scout when speaking with The Hockey News, Helenius plays a complete, 200-foot-game.
He is the first player part of the Sabres' 2024 draft class to sign his entry-level contract.
Last week during Sabres Development Camp, fans were able to get a first glimpse of Helenius, as he was far-and-away the best player against players his own age.
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While the Sabres may not have decided yet if Jiri Kulich or Noah Ostlund are centers or wingers, general manager Kevyn Adams has already made a decision on Helenius that he will definitely be a center within the depth of the organization.
Helenius has played the last two seasons in Finland’s top league, Liiga, and the 18-year-old has done very well going up against grown men.
In 51 games last season with Jukurit, Helenius scored 14 goals and added 22 assists for 36 points, giving him one of the most productive seasons for a player in their draft year playing professionally in Finland.
Helenius also played for Finland in the World Junior Championship and had a huge shootout goal in a win over Sweden in the preliminary round.
Adams said on draft day he wants to get Helenius playing in North America as soon as possible, and did not close the door on him possibly playing in Buffalo this upcoming season.
If Helenius does not make the Sabres' roster from Day 1 of the regular season, there is a chance he could play in Rochester with the Americans, or return to Finland and play for Tappara, the best professional team in Liiga running three years straight.
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