Breaking: Buffalo Sabres Trim Roster, Return Three Prospects to Junior Ranks; Brunet, Bedkowski, and Meloche Head Back to Junior Hockey as Sabres Narrow Down to 23-Man Roster
Sabres Trim Roster: Three Prospects Head Back to Junior Ranks
The Buffalo Sabres have wasted no time in whittling down their training camp roster, announcing the return of three prospects to their respective junior programs. In a decision that’s not unexpected at this stage of the preseason, defensemen Simon-Pier Brunet and David Bedkowski, along with goaltender Samuel Meloche, have all been cut from the team.
Brunet: A Patience Game
Brunet, drafted 123rd overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, is heading back to the QMJHL’s Victoriaville Tigres after spending the last three years with the Drummondville Voltigeurs. The 19-year-old showed promise last season, notching eight goals and 32 points in 60 games with a plus-10 rating. However, the Sabres seem content to let Brunet continue his development in the NCAA, where he’s committed to Merrimack College for the 2026-27 season.
Did you know? Brunet’s 32 points last season were fourth-most among QMJHL defensemen.
Bedkowski: The Enforcer’s Path
At 6’5″ and 220 lbs, Bedkowski is a physical force on the ice. The 18-year-old, selected 71st overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, spent last year with the OHL’s Owen Sound Attack, collecting three goals, seven points, and an impressive 73 PIMs in 30 games. The Sabres are likely giving him more time to develop his offensive game and hone his formidable physical play.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Bedkowski’s PIMs; they could signal his ice time and role on the team.
Meloche: A Starter’s Resume
Meloche, Buffalo’s 116th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, is another QMJHL product heading back to the league. Last season with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, the 18-year-old netminder recorded a 30-14-6 record with a .900 SV% and 2.90 GAA, along with five shutouts. Committed to Northeastern University, Meloche has shown he can handle a starter’s workload, but he’ll continue to gain experience and grow in the NCAA.
Reader Question: Which of these three prospects do you think has the highest ceiling? Sound off in the comments!
Faq
Q: Will these players have a chance to return to the Sabres later in the season?
A: Yes, prospects can be recalled from their junior teams throughout the season if needed.
Q: What’s next for these prospects?
A: They’ll continue their development in their respective junior leagues before eventually joining their NCAA programs.
Call to Action:
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