Owen Power, a Michigan defenseman, has decided to go back to school instead of jumping to the NHL for the second season after being selected as the No. #1 pick of the Buffalo SabresMultiple reports have indicated that the last month’s draft is still available.
Power’s decision comes as no surprise, having stated in advance that he was considering returning to Michigan. The Buffalo News reported Power’s decision on Thursday.
Mississauga (Ontario) teen Power cited several reasons why she chose to stay on Ann Arbor’s campus for one more season. These included the desire to continue her development and to experience a college year that isn’t restricted by coronavirus. Power also wanted to be a Frozen Four champion after Michigan’s abrupt season ending. After positive COVID-19 tests, the 2-seeded Wolverines were expelled from the NCAA tournament.
Kevyn Adams, general manager of Sabres, stated that the team is available should Power return from school to continue their development.
Adams stated, “This league is tough. I don’t think we want to put someone in a position where they are just treading water.” We want them ready to play.
After dealing forward, the Sabres are undergoing a major offseason revamp. They now place their emphasis on youth and building upon that. Sam ReinhartDefenseman Rasmus Ristolainen in separate trades last month. Captain Jack EichelDue to growing discord with his team about whether he should have surgery for a neck injury, he is now on the block.
Power, who is 6’6 and 213 lbs and listed as a Big Ten All-Rookie Team Selection after scoring 3 goals and 13 assists in 26 Big Ten games. Power was chosen to represent Canada in the eventual championships in Latvia, May and June. He played a greater role throughout the tournament and finished with three assists in ten games.
Power was the third NCAA player to be selected in the NHL Draft.
After having had four of the five NHL draft picks, the Wolverines have a potential stacked team.
Matthew Beniers from Michigan was the No. 2, to the expansion Seattle KrakenThe fourth-ranked selection was defenseman Luke Hughes, who has committed to playing for the Wolverines in the coming year. New Jersey DevilsThe fifth selection was made by the foreman Kent Johnson. Columbus Blue Jackets