Sabres Eye Forward Ryan Roobroeck in Latest 2026 Mock Draft Predictions

The excitement surrounding the 2026 NHL Entry Draft is building as the date approaches, and with the draft lottery now behind us, anticipation is palpable. In a recent mock draft published by The Athletic, Scott Wheeler forecasts that the Buffalo Sabres will select forward Ryan Roobroeck with their first-round pick this year.

Roobroeck, a towering 6-foot-3 winger, has emerged as a compelling prospect, particularly during his impressive tenure with the Niagara IceDogs in the OHL. His performance during the 2024-25 season was nothing short of remarkable, as he netted 41 goals, provided 46 assists, and amassed a total of 87 points over 64 games. These statistics highlight his offensive prowess and potential to make an impact at the professional level.

Further showcasing his skill, Roobroeck maintained strong offensive numbers throughout the season, contributing 30 goals, 28 assists, and 58 points in just 49 games. Such production indicates that he possesses significant upside, making him an intriguing option for the Sabres as they look to enhance their roster.

As the Sabres solidify their status as serious contenders, enhancing their prospect pool remains a priority. Selecting a big talent like Roobroeck could be a strategic move for Buffalo, especially if he remains available when their turn comes. The upcoming draft will reveal whether Roobroeck will don the Sabres’ colors, but for now, the team’s focus is squarely on their playoff matchup against the Montreal Canadiens in the second round.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.