Sabres select forward Morozov with 20th pick in NHL Draft
NHL.com • • sports
Key Points:
- The Buffalo Sabres selected forward Ilia Morozov with the 20th overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, recognizing his strong two-way play and potential at the pro level.
- Morozov, the youngest player in the NCAA last season, impressed as a freshman at Miami University (Ohio) with 20 points in 36 games, showcasing pace, precision, and strong hockey IQ.
- NHL Central Scouting ranked him as the 10th-best North American-based skater, highlighting his defensive awareness, offensive threat in tight spaces, and ability to elevate teammates' play.
- TSN’s Craig Button compared Morozov to Carolina Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal, praising his versatility, competitive edge, and impact beyond individual statistics.
- Originally from Moscow, Morozov moved to the U.S. at age 14 to pursue his NHL dream, playing in the USHL before college, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to advance his career.
