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When Lindy Ruff returned to the helm of the Buffalo Sabres in April 2024, his message was unmistakable: the time for the franchise to evolve had arrived. Among the young core Ruff inherited, one name stands out — Owen Power, the 6-foot-6, left-shot defenseman drafted first overall in 2021.
From rookie promise to foundational piece
Power’s ascent began quickly: after signing his seven-year extension in October 2023, the Sabres made it clear he was central to the club’s long-term build. His ice time, offensive contributions and minutes in critical scenarios reinforced that status.
Yet, as many observers noted, his defensive game had areas for development — something Ruff didn’t shy away from addressing. For example, Power’s lower-body injury in April 2025 curtailed his season.
The new position: “Cornerstone defenseman / anchor of the blue line”
If Ruff is promising to “make Owen Power the new…” something, what exactly could that be? While the team hasn’t issued a sound-bite declaring “we make him our next captain,” the clues are compelling:
Power is locked in long-term.
Ruff’s comments suggest the Sabres are re-tooling with youth and physicality.
You need a defenseman who can both move the puck and reliably defend.
Power fits that mold physically and offensively, and the coaching staff appears committed to sharpening his all-around game.
Thus, the most plausible reading: Ruff is positioning Power as the franchise’s defensive anchor — the go-to man on the blue line who leads transition, quarterbacks the second power-play unit, kills penalties, and serves as a signal of when the Sabres are ready to contend.
Why this matters
Leadership through play: Even without the “C” on his sweater, a defenseman who commands 22 + minutes a night, logs special-teams time, and makes decisions with poise becomes a natural leader.
Building identity: The Sabres have, for years, lacked a true elite defenseman at their core. Power gives them one.
Ruff’s experience: Having coached many young players to maturity, Ruff understands that positioning a young talent into a visible, vital role helps accelerate his growth.
What to watch
Zone exits & defense per possession: As Power evolves into this role, his defensive metrics need to climb — fewer giveaways, improved plus/minus in context (recognizing team factors), better shot suppression.
Special-teams usage: Will he be the first defenseman on penalty kill? Will he get increased power-play quarterbacking duties?
Mentorship & voice: Will Ruff lean on him in critical moments (late-game defensive zone faceoffs, tying or go-ahead situations)?
Durability and consistency: The injury in 2025 is a reminder — stepping into a heavier role means sustaining longer seasons and avoiding physical breakdowns.
Final word
Lindy Ruff’s message to the Buffalo Sabres is clear: the franchise isn’t just rebuilding, it’s rising. Owen Power stands at the centre of that rise. He may not yet wear the “C,” but make no mistake — he’s being groomed as the defensive cornerstone around which the Sabres
’ next contending chapter is being written.
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