This Buffalo Sabres prospect could be a big surprise in 2024-25.

The Buffalo Sabres are entering next season with one primary goal: to break their 13-year playoff drought. For this to occur, they will not only need their stars to produce but will also need contributions from their entire lineup.

When looking at the Sabres’ roster, it is fair to argue that their forward depth is looking stronger with all of their bottom-six summer additions. However, they also have several notable prospects who also could compete for NHL jobs next season. One of them is forward Isak Rosen.

Rosen, 21, appeared in his first seven career NHL games last season for the Sabres, where he failed to get on the scoresheet. While his first taste at the NHL level was quiet, he improved significantly at the AHL level. In 67 games with the Rochester Americans in 2023-24, he set new career highs with 20 goals, 30 assists, and 50 points. It was a big step in the right direction for the 2021 first-round pick, and he should build off it in 2024-25.

At a minimum, Rosen should get more chances at the NHL level next season. However, when looking at his improvement this past campaign, the possibility of him taking another step forward and cementing himself as an impactful NHLer is also there. Thus, he is a prime breakout candidate heading into next season, and it will be fascinating to see what kind of campaign he puts together.