The script is familiar. The Buffalo Sabres will miss the playoffs again, extending their NHL-record drought to 13 seasons. But all is not lost, and like last year, fans can take comfort in their top minor league affiliate.
The Rochester Americans are headed to the American Hockey League postseason for a third consecutive year, looking to pick up where they left off after being eliminated in last year’s Final Four. It’s largely the same cast of characters as it has been over the past few seasons for the Amerks, but the team has one noticeable upgrade who could be a difference-maker.
Another Solid Season in Rochester
The 2023-24 season did not go to plan for the Sabres, but it was business as usual for their friends up the road. The Americans posted another strong campaign and have secured their ticket to the playoffs. As of April 16, they had a 37-29-9 record, good for second in the North Division and sixth in the Eastern Conference. The key to success for head coach Seth Appert’s team was once again strong all-around production from its entire lineup.
Though the usual suspects continued to stand out for the Americans, they’ve proven to be a formidable squad from top to bottom. Look no further than Mason Jobst. The 30-year-old emerged from the ranks this season and established himself as one of their best players with a team-leading 50 points and nine power-play goals. Behind him, youngsters Isak Rosen and Jiri Kulich continued their rapid development with 46 and 43 points, respectively, in what could be their last AHL season.
The ever-reliable Brandon Biro wasn’t as dominant as he has been in the past but still turned in a strong campaign with 41 points in 56 games. Michael Mersch’s production dipped slightly in his third season as captain, but he continued to lead by example with a respectable 38 points, a mark matched by Lukas Rousek. The defensive corps also provided a boost with a 32-point showing from Jeremy Davies and a team-leading plus-19 rating from rookie Nikita Novikov. Western New York native blueliner Joe Cecconi returned after being traded to the Dallas Stars last season and recorded 11 points, as well.
Their inspired team effort helped the Americans keep up in what has proven to be an airtight Eastern Conference, and their 83 points is already an improvement over last season…
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