By Warren Kozireski —
Buffalo had just five picks on day two of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft with just two of those prior to the fifth round.
But they saw what they wanted and, in the second round, Buffalo traded up four spots to select right wing John-Jason (JJ) Peterka from Germany, who was ranked seventh among International skaters going into the draft.
The 18-year old—19 in January—5’11”, 192 lb. scored seven goals and 11 points in 42 games playing against men in Germany. He has played at the last three U-20 World Juniors for Germany scoring two goals in three games this past year.
“I think I am a creative offensive player who is both a playmaker and scorer< Peterka said via Zoom. “I was excited today for the draft and now to be a part of the Buffalo organization. It’s a good feeling that they trust in you.
“My goal is to play as soon as possible in the NHL and help the Sabres win the Stanley Cup.”
In the fifth round 131st overall, the Sabres selected center Marco Costantini, who spent last season with the Buffalo Jr. Sabres where he netted 36 goals and 32 assists in 50 games and was named the league’s Rookie of the Year. The 6’0”, 173 lb. left shot is scheduled to head to Penticton in the BCHL this coming season.
Buffalo chose twice in the seventh round. With the 193rd overall selection, they took Swedish offensive defenseman Albert Lyckasen, who tallied 26 points in 43 games with Linkoping J-20 SuperElit last season. He also added six assists in four games at the U-19 Championships.
They wrapped up their five-player draft with a pick obtained from Dallas for Taylor Fedun by taking Czech center Jakub Konecny. He has put up solid offensive numbers with the HC Sparta Praha U-20 team with a combined 18 goals and 34 points of the last two seasons including SuperCup play.
