The Sabers have missed the playoffs for the past 11 seasons, but it would take more to discourage youngster Matthew Savoie, freshly drafted by Buffalo.

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A wind of youth is blowing on the Sabers and Savoie, selected ninth overall earlier this month, wants to be part of the adventure quickly. Despite his 18 years, he does not hide his intentions to break through training in the next campaign.

“The bulk of my determination comes from myself, expressed Savoie, quoted on the National League website, recalling that an exceptional player status had been refused to him a few years ago when he wanted to evolve in the Western Junior League from the age of 15. I'm always a motivated person, I've always been dedicated. I'm taking it one step at a time and just trying to get better."

A promising future

In Buffalo, the Sabers are already betting on several young players, starting with Swedish defender Rasmus Dahlin, who is still only 22, as well as fullback Owen Power.

The trade that sent forward Jack Eichel to the Vegas Golden Knights last November allowed the Sabers to add Peyton Krebs in particular. Other forwards not yet 25 include Tage Thompson, Dylan Cozens, Rasmus Asplund, Jack Quinn and Casey Mittelstadt. In addition to Savoie, the Sabers selected two other center players in the first round of the recent draft: Noah Ostlund (16th) and Jiri Kulich (28th). Of the three, Savoie seems the most promising for the moment.

"I always want to be part of the games, I don't want to take time off. That's the type of person I am," Savoie also said in the interview posted on the NHL's website.

- In 2021-22, the Sabers posted a 32-39-11 record, finishing 11th in the Eastern Conference, with 75 points in the standings.