Sabres Rookie Konsta Helenius Should Be in Calder Trophy Talks

The 2026-27 NHL season is approaching fast, which means sooner rather than later we will get into award predictions, whether they are team-related or individual awards.

A trophy that has many strong candidates per season over the last few years (even if a player is unanimous, like Matthew Schaefer in 2025-26) is the Calder Trophy. The Calder Trophy is voted on by the PHWA (Professional Hockey Writers’ Association) and is given to the most outstanding rookie for that given season.

I did mention last season Schaefer won it unanimously; however, both Ivan Demidov of the Montreal Canadiens and Beckette Sennecke of the Anaheim Ducks had strong cases, but Schaefer was just that impressive.

This season, there are a few candidates who jump off the page, including the 2026 first-overall pick, Gavin McKenna, or players like Porter Martone, Ivar Stenberg, Anton Frondell, and even Cole Hutson. However, there is one player in particular that I believe everyone is sleeping on: Buffalo Sabres rookie Konsta Helenius.

Konsta Helenius Impressed in Limited Time Last Season

Helenius didn’t get a huge sample size last season, but he made every shift count. In nine regular‑season games, he put up four points (one goal, three assists) and showed flashes of the skillset that makes him such an intriguing young center. When the Sabres called him up during the second round of the playoffs, he responded again, scoring two goals in four games and proving he could handle the intensity of postseason hockey.

Most of his minutes came as the third‑line center, and he excelled in that role. His speed immediately gave Buffalo’s middle six a different look, and his decision‑making helped stabilize the line. When he rejoined the roster in the playoffs, the Sabres were struggling to match Montreal’s pace. Through three games, the Canadiens were clearly the faster team. Helenius helped close that gap with his skating, finesse, and ability to push play north.

What stood out most was how quickly he adapted. His hockey IQ is advanced for his age, and it shows in the way he anticipates plays, finds open space, and makes quick reads under pressure. His shot is strong, his playmaking is sharp, and his confidence is noticeable every time he touches the puck.

Two parts of his game often get overlooked: his work ethic and his skating. Helenius doesn’t cheat shifts. He hunts pucks, wins races, and forces mistakes with constant pressure. His stride is smooth and efficient, allowing him to transition quickly and stay involved in every sequence. Those traits, combined with his skill, make him a player who can thrive in multiple roles and climb the lineup as the season goes on.

Helenius Will Make up for Alex Tuch’s Absence

The Sabres faced one of their toughest calls this offseason: parting ways with Alex Tuch. When contract talks stalled, the team traded his rights to the Washington Capitals, ending a tenure that defined grit and balance. Tuch wasn’t just a scorer; he was the heartbeat of Buffalo’s two-way game. Over his Sabres run, he posted 60-plus points in all but one season, killed penalties like a veteran, and set the tone with relentless forechecking. Losing him isn’t just losing offense; it’s losing identity.

Now, the roster must collectively fill that gap. But one player stands out as the potential answer: Helenius.

He gives Buffalo a new offensive spark and a creative, fearless playmaker who can tilt the ice in transition. With no marquee free-agent addition or blockbuster trade, the Sabres are betting big on their youth to rise. Helenius is at the center of that gamble.

Last season in the American Hockey League (AHL), he racked up 63 points (21 goals, 42 assists), proving he can drive offense every night. Whether he’s anchoring the middle six or earning top-six minutes, his skill set translates. He’s got the vision, pace, and finishing touch to replace much of what Tuch brought, if he’s given the ice time to do it.

Head coach Lindy Ruff seems ready to give him that chance. Helenius is projected to start as the third-line center, flanked by Jason Zucker and Jack Quinn. But if his chemistry clicks and his confidence builds, don’t be surprised to see him skating alongside Zach Benson and Tage Thompson on the top line before long.

And here’s the kicker: Helenius deserves to be in the Calder Trophy conversation. He’s not getting the same buzz as McKenna, Stenberg, or Martone, but his ceiling is just as high. If he delivers on his potential, he won’t just fill Tuch’s void; he’ll redefine Buffalo’s offensive core.