Buffalo, N.Y. (WGR 550) – When the Sabres selected Isak Rosen 14th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, COVID-19 prevented him from coming to Buffalo for development camp. That wasn’t the case this year, and the 19-year-old was happy he could be here.
“It’s amazing to be here and see the facility, meet the staff and all the other prospects,” said Rosen during Sabres Development Camp.
This was also the first time Rosen got to see the arena, the Sabres' dressing room and the amenities around it. Rosen also was impressed with Harborcenter, where development camp was held.
“The facilities are amazing,” Rosen said.
Rosen is signed and will be here for training camp in September. The winger feels this experience will help him when he gets here for camp.
“It’s very good for me, because it’ll be a longer time next time I come over," Rosen said. "It’s nice to see the city and meet the boys.”
Unlike this season, where the 2022 first-round picks - Matt Savoie, Noah Ostlund and Jiri Kulich - are signed, Buffalo waited a year on Rosen. He’s still glad to get it done.
“You don’t get too many opportunities to sign an NHL contract," Rosen said. "I also felt like Buffalo has very good opportunities here, and I think that’s perfect for me.”
Last season, Rosen played in three leagues in Sweden, including the Swedish Hockey League. He likes the improvements he’s made with his game.
“I got stronger and better," Rosen said. "I tried to make decisions faster, and against men, that’s the biggest thing, I think.”
Rosen knows Ostlund pretty well, as they’ve played against each other in Sweden.
“He’s a really skilled guy," he said of the Nykvarn native. "He’s excellent on his skates, has fast turns, and has really good hands. I think every player wants to play with him.”
If Rosen winds up in Rochester, he will likely be there with fellow Swedes Filip Cederqvist, Linus Weissbach and Lawrence Pilut.
