With the 193rd overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, the Buffalo Sabres wrapped up their draft class by selecting center Tyson Kozak from the Portland Winterhawks in the Western Hockey League.
The 18-year-old center has spent the past two seasons playing in Portland, where he's appeared in 86 games and scored 16 goals and 24 assists for 40 points. This past season in the COVID-19 pandemic-shortened campaign, Kozak was able to produce three goals and add eight assists for 11 points in 18 games.
Standing in at 5-foot-11 and 161 pounds, Kozak has been described as a reliable two-way center who can play a physical game despite his size. According to Elite Prospects:
"Offensively, he plays between checks, providing himself with just enough space to fire a two-touch or catch-and-release wrister. Without the puck, he brings a bit of physicality and a consistent motor. While not a play-killer, he’s constantly in a supporting position and identifies the next play immediately."
The highest ranking Kozak received ahead of the 2021 NHL Draft was 143rd overall by FC Hockey. He was also ranked as the 161st North American skater by NHL Central Scouting.
***Photo: Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres)
