Sabres’ Noah Ostlund Set for NHL Debut After Stellar AHL Streak

BUFFALO, N.Y. – After scoring in his sixth consecutive game, Noah Ostlund has earned a call-up to the NHL following a standout season with the Rochester Americans. The 21-year-old Swedish center will make his NHL debut tonight against the Tampa Bay Lightning at KeyBank Center.

Following Wednesday’s 4-2 victory over the Springfield Thunderbirds, Sabres coach Mike Leone informed the team that Ostlund would be making the jump to the NHL. “Everyone got excited,” Ostlund recounted, expressing his “happiness” at the news. The cheers from his teammates only amplified the moment.

The 16th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft has been a revelation this season, compiling nine goals and 14 points in 11 games last month, including his first AHL hat trick. His exceptional play earned him recognition as the AHL’s Player of the Week and Rookie of the Month, adding to the excitement surrounding his debut.

Rochester’s success this season helped pave the way for Ostlund’s call-up. With a spot available due to a teammate’s hip strain, coach Lindy Ruff felt it was the right time to elevate Ostlund. “Nothing but good – the way he’s played, the way he’s defended… He’s put together a real good year down there,” Ruff said.

Ostlund, who stands at 5-foot-11 and weighs 171 pounds, has developed into one of the Sabres’ top prospects. Ruff praised his hockey IQ and defensive ability, noting that being a young center requires a solid understanding of the game. “He’s progressed and he’s pushed himself to where he’s become one of the top players down there,” Ruff added.

His journey this season has been marked by adversity. After a hand injury resulted in surgery in October, Ostlund returned in January and has since racked up 18 goals and 34 points in his last 32 games. “I think I’ve just found my game a little bit more,” Ostlund said. “I think I’ve been playing more with the puck and creating more every shift.”

Ostlund’s adaptation to the AHL was a significant shift from his previous experience in Sweden with Vaxjo HC, where he recorded 12 goals and 23 points last season. His solid training camp led to a brief stint with the Rochester Americans last season, giving him a head start on this current campaign.

Ostlund’s recent scoring surge and hard work have garnered the confidence of his coaches, setting the stage for his opportunity in the NHL. “If you’re going to be a young guy and play center, you’ve got to figure the game out in your own end,” Ruff emphasized.

In addition to Ostlund’s debut, the Sabres are excited to see how the young prospect will fit into their lineup as they continue their three-game home stand. With talent like Ostlund joining the team, the Sabres are aiming to drive deeper into playoff contention.