46. Aleksandr Kisakov — LW, MHK Dynamo Moskva, 5-foot-10
Kisakov has this spin move that he uses one-on-one with defenders on the perimeter that is somewhere between a cut-back and a pirouette that he has absolutely mastered as a way to create separation for himself. He is one of the more fun players to watch in the draft because he’s never actually in trouble with the puck on his stick, and regularly pulls and drags it through feet to beat the same defender twice (which will get harder against better defenders but is a sure sign of skill and comfort). He’s also got a silky-smooth first touch, which helps him catch and release pucks quickly (to shoot or give it back). His ability to change directions, adjust on his edges in control to hang onto the puck under pressure, and flurry around the offensive zone to wreak havoc make him a first-round talent. My concern is with his size. He’s now listed at 150 pounds by NHL Central Scouting and he’s a November 2002 so he’s on the older side of this draft class. Even as the NHL game changes, it’s very hard for players as small as Kisakov to break through and impact play the same way they tend to at lower levels. Florida’s Aleski Heponiemi has found that out the hard way. There’s a boom or bust element to a Kisakov selection as a result. He’s magic out there, though.
- Michael Pachla

Speed, skill. I like it. Let’s get back to the 07 Sabres model

kisakov 5'10 150 pounds

how is such a thing possible

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@Sabremetrix
The Buffalo Sabres are absolutely falling in love with skill in this draft and it is beautiful to see

ABSOLUTELY

I mean I love the skill the Sabres are going after but the forwards are a different type then I thought they wanted to build a team with. I thought they wanted to get bigger, stronger and skilled which was what succeeded a lot in the playoffs. I mean you need skill but they are small and wimpy already.

Guess Karmanos doesn't have a problem drafting Russian's, what a change.

I believe the sabres drafted the two best draft eligible players in the CSKA

Prokhor Poltapov and Kisakov are the top scorers for draft eligible players.

46. Aleksandr Kisakov — LW, MHK Dynamo Moskva, 5-foot-10

Kisakov has this spin move that he uses one-on-one with defenders on the perimeter that is somewhere between a cut-back and a pirouette that he has absolutely mastered as a way to create separation for himself. He is one of the more fun players to watch in the draft because he’s never actually in trouble with the puck on his stick, and regularly pulls and drags it through feet to beat the same defender twice (which will get harder against better defenders but is a sure sign of skill and comfort). He’s also got a silky-smooth first touch, which helps him catch and release pucks quickly (to shoot or give it back). His ability to change directions, adjust on his edges in control to hang onto the puck under pressure, and flurry around the offensive zone to wreak havoc make him a first-round talent. My concern is with his size. He’s now listed at 150 pounds by NHL Central Scouting and he’s a November 2002 so he’s on the older side of this draft class. Even as the NHL game changes, it’s very hard for players as small as Kisakov to break through and impact play the same way they tend to at lower levels. Florida’s Aleski Heponiemi has found that out the hard way. There’s a boom or bust element to a Kisakov selection as a result. He’s magic out there, though.
- Michael Pachla

The bold is what they should be doing after the first round. It's nice to see.

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@Sabremetrix
The Buffalo Sabres are absolutely falling in love with skill in this draft and it is beautiful to see

ABSOLUTELY
- TheSabresTaco

😍😍😍😍

kisakov 5'10 150 pounds

how is such a thing possible
- robz228

2014 - Brayden Point - 5'9", 160

I mean I love the skill the Sabres are going after but the forwards are a different type then I thought they wanted to build a team with. I thought they wanted to get bigger, stronger and skilled which was what succeeded a lot in the playoffs. I mean you need skill but they are small and wimpy already.
- GilPerreault11

Draft skill, trade and sign size?

Sabremetrix Bar chart
@Sabremetrix
The Buffalo Sabres are absolutely falling in love with skill in this draft and it is beautiful to see

ABSOLUTELY
- TheSabresTaco

Its about time. The "trash" sabres have been drafting in the 2nd round the last 10 years isn't working.

- Michael Pachla

Is that Eichel when he was 12? Should have stuck to drums.

2014 - Brayden Point - 5'9", 160
- TheSabresTaco

Paul Byron was also a runt when he was drafted. 150lbs ish...

Just like Eli when the Chargers drafted him. Holding the Jersey frowning like a little kid.
- c1067

Yeah man. I'm so sick of these entitled athletes and I'm equally sick of people who defend them for no reason.

Plus, the Russians played full seasons.

You actually have complete scouting reports for them. People shouldn't be stunned that they've turned to guys who played a lot, showed development and have a ton of skill. (frank)ing love it. Take the swings!!

didnt hire some oaf coach who's name the owner recognized
girgensons not protected
risto traded
ventura front and center in draft room
drafting russians

is... pegula... taking the back seat????????

WHAT IS HAPPENING???

I freaking love it

kisakov 5'10 150 pounds

how is such a thing possible
- robz228

*raises hand

Plus, the Russians played full seasons.

You actually have complete scouting reports for them. People shouldn't be stunned that they've turned to guys who played a lot, showed development and have a ton of skill. (frank)ing love it. Take the swings!!
- TheSabresTaco

Nice catch...never thought of that. We are getting more developed players

- Stripes77

Talking about drafting his brother

2014 - Brayden Point - 5'9", 160
- TheSabresTaco

Exactly. Weight not my concern for an 18 year old.

How about Ryan Miller? He was 150lbs when we drafted him. He turned out ok I’d say

Most even strength goals than any other 1st year draft eligible pick

This team is going to be ridiculously fast

Loving the draft. Power for defense at 1st and then going after skilled forwards after that.

Love it!

Dach at 76 is perfectly acceptable.
- TheSabresTaco

We don’t pick again til 95 so....