Mattias Samuelsson

May 2022 – Samuelsson projected as a stud stay-at-home defenseman, and he’ll still be that. But he also found an offensive element to his game in two years of pro hockey, posting a combined 28 points in 45 AHL games for Rochester. He was called up to Buffalo and proved to be ready for the challenge, making it difficult to be sent back down. He is already bigger and stronger than most NHL players and now that he is a two-way threat he has become that much more valuable to the Sabres. And also an asset in fantasy. – Dobber

August 2020 – Samuelsson was very effective on the defensive side of the puck for Western Michigan University in 2019-2020. He recorded a plus-minus rating of +17, the second-highest of any player on his team. Standing at 6-4, 221 lbs, he is a very imposing defenceman who uses his strength to contain the opposition. He is not a particularly mobile defenceman but his strength allows him to pressure the opponent along the boards and separate them from the puck. He has a tendency to pinch in the offensive zone as well, taking advantage of his size as a blockade along the wall of the offensive zone. He represented Team USA at the 2020 IIHF World Junior Championships as the team’s captain. Samuelsson agreed to a three-year, entry-level contract with the Buffalo Sabres in March 2020. He will likely join the Sabres AHL affiliate, the Rochester Americans, at the start of next season. Kevin Wong

January 2020 – Mattias Samuelsson was on the US World Junior squad, but unfortunately did not medal in the Czech Republic. He was named captain of the squad and led by example. He was a physical specimen along the blue line and constantly delivered big checks. Aside from his play at the World Juniors, Samuelsson has had a productive campaign with Western Michigan University. In 16 games, Samuelsson has tallied seven points (one goal and six assists). His offensive numbers are solid and he continues to utilize his aggressive playing style to open up lanes through traffic and create magic in all three zones. Samuelsson’s fantasy value is rising and if he is available in your 2020 fantasy hockey prospect keeper draft, you should take a chance on him. Josh Tessler

July 2019 – Mattias Samuelsson is coming off of his first season in the NCAA. In 35 games played for Western Michigan University, he tallied 5 goals, 7 assists and 37 PIM. Samuelsson has worked on discipline as he took far fewer penalties last season than he did in his 2017-18 campaign with the USNTDP, but he still has work to do. Aside from discipline concerns, he is showing improvement in his overall game. Samuelsson has good positioning, solid physicality and decent hands. Even though he tends to be more of defensive defensemen, he will get involved in the offensive zone and will pick up the puck and attempt to spark scoring chances. The only issue with Samuelsson is his skating. When you watch the World Junior Summer Showcase game tape, you will see how sluggish and slow Samuelsson is at times. In addition, he does not utilize his outside and inside edges. Samuelsson needs to beef up his edge-work and work on his turns. While he does have some work to do skating-wise, his transitioning from forwards to backwards is quite solid. Josh Tessler

September 2018 – Buffalo used the first pick of the second round (32^nd overall) to select safe American defenseman Mattias Samuelsson. Samuelsson has a large 6-4 frame and an NHL ready body which he uses effectively, taking calculated risks in whatever he does. He looks a lot closer to NHL play than others and plays a very strong defensive game. Samuelsson racked up over 100 penalty minutes last season so his discipline could be improved, but he brings a valuable physical presence to any team he plays on and skates very well and balanced for a 220 lb big man. He utilizes his size well in defensive situations and along the boards, as well as blocking shots in front of the net. He needs to develop his offensive game and add some zest into it, as well as improve his skating some more to make him a nightmare to play against.  Marcus Griep