Let's head into the GM's office and take a look at the picks made by the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres had 3 picks on day 1 of the BRHL draft, 4th overall, 35th overall and 67th overall. Here's how they break down:

4th Overall:  C/LW William Eklund 5'10" 181 lbs - Djurgardens IF (SHL)

Eklund is a high IQ player, maybe the highest in the draft, who playes with pace and also has shown a committment to back checking and hounding the puck carrier. His defensive play doesn't get talked about much due to being such a creative offensive player, he really shows off this creativity on the half-wall in the offensive zone. San Jose have said they view him as a center, but I'm sure he won't be a center in the NHL. His shot could use some work, but that should come as he gets older and gains some strength.

NHL Stylistic Comparison: Henrik Zetterberg

Notes from the GM: "Our draft list had Eklund at #1, I know people say this all the time but he really was tops on our list. So we were elated to have Eklund available at our 4th overall pick. Some had asked, who would you have picked if Eklund was gone at 3? Luckily we don't have to find out." (The GM winks and points to a draft profile of Simon Edvinsson.)

What to expect: Eklund is poised to start the year with the NHL Sharks. He should be an early favorite for the Calder trophy. We can expect to see him in the 2023-2024 BRHL season. He should be able to step right into a top 6 scoring roll and PP spot.

35th Overall: RW Mackie Samoskevich 5'11" 172 lbs - Michigan Wolverines (NCAA)

Samoskevich is a highly skilled winger with dirty dangles and high risk moves. His hands are his best asset but he's also a skilled passer and always seems to find open ice. He doesn't have much of a cycle game, which he'll need to work on to be successful on the power play at the NHL level.  He doesn't play like a small skilled player without the puck, he likes to finish his checks.

NHL Stylistic Comparison: Brayden Point / Johnny Gaudreau

Notes from the GM: "Props to the other GM's evaluations this draft, my short list got real short as we crept closer to this pick. I knew nabbing Scott Morrow was a pipe dream, but he was on top of my short list, followed by Pastujov, Pinelli, and Pertov. I had Samoskevich going at the end of round 1, so I was glad he managed to fall to this pick."

What to expect: I have no idea when to expect Mackie to turn pro in the NHL. I think a safe bet would be 2023-2024, which would put his BRHL debut in the 2024-2025 season. He should be able to make the leap directly to the NHL, but will have to wait and see where Florida is by then. Middle 6 winger would be what's expected of him.

67th Overall: LW Carter Mazur 6'0" 170 lbs - Denver Pioneers (NCAA)

Mazur is considered undersized due to his weight, which was a big reason he was passed over his first time eligible. He possesses a good shot, which he's able to get off quickly, and his skating has been an asset for him. He's also shown good defensive play away from the puck and has been a leader in the dressing room everywhere he goes. Another good asset for him is his versatility, he can play in a scoring role or be deployed in a defensive role. 

NHL Stylistic Comparison: Dominik Kahun

Notes from the GM: "When I tuned into Pioneer games to check in on Sabres prospect Rizzo, I was impressed with Mazur's play. He reminds me a lot of former Sabres draftee Dominik Kahun. I had Jack Peart at the top of my target list with this pick but figured he wouldn't make it to 67th. Quite happy with option 2 here."

What to expect: I could see him staying at Denver for another two seasons, and he'll need time in the AHL to adjust to the pro game. He's many years away from making an impact in the BRHL, but when he arrives you can expect a PK specialist at the absolute worst.

That wraps up day 1. The Sabres will be busy tonight on day 2 with seven more picks to make, 5 of which are in round 5. Good luck everyone!