On Monday, the Buffalo Sabres announced the signing of center Konsta Helenius to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Last month, Helenius was chosen by the Sabres as the 14th-overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. He recently became the first member of Buffalo’s 2024 draft class to finalize his entry-level contract.

In Finland’s premier hockey league (Liiga), Helenius, a native of Ylojarvi, Finland, showcased his talent by scoring a total of 36 points (14 goals and 22 assists) throughout 51 games in the previous season. This achievement places him amongst the top under-18 players in Liiga history, trailing only behind renowned NHL forwards Aleksander Barkov, Mikael Granlund, and Kaapo Kakko. These impressive numbers were achieved while playing for Jukurit.

Helenius’ exceptional performance secured him a position on Finland’s roster for the IIHF World Championship in May, coinciding with the eve of his 18th birthday. Despite being the youngest participant in the tournament, he showcased remarkable skills by contributing one assist and achieving a plus-2 rating in four games, all while competing against several NHL players.

According to Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams, Helenius ranked in the top 10 on the team’s draft board. As a result, the entire group was eagerly anticipating the outcome of the draft. Adams and his amateur scouting staff are confident that Helenius, being a “true centerman,” will be prepared for professional hockey in the near future.

Adams expressed, “We envision a triumphant hockey player, someone who will assume the role of center for our team and contribute to our victories on the ice.”

• READ: ‘I like to battle hard’ | Helenius brings mature, competitive identity to Sabres

During the recent Development Camp, Helenius donned a Sabres uniform for the first time, catching the attention of Sabres’ development staff and Rochester Americans coaches. This was their initial opportunity to witness the forward’s exceptional vision and skill in avoiding pressure firsthand.

“The standout quality that catches your attention right away is his hockey sense,” commented Vinny Prospal, assistant coach of the Amerks. “Observing him in small-area games, it becomes evident that his hockey sense is superior to that of many of the players currently on the ice.”

The talent of the 18-year-old also left an impression on Adam Mair, the director of player development for the Sabres.

Mair complimented his smoothness, highlighting his ability to elude pressure in the previous drill. He possesses exceptional hands, vision, and playmaking skills.

During the last day of camp, the prospects were divided into three teams for the yearly 3v3 tournament. Helenius showcased his skills by scoring three goals for Team Perreault throughout the event. Notably, he scored the decisive shootout goal in Game 1 and the winning goal in Game 3, leading his team to the championship game. In a dominant performance, Helenius and Team Perreault emerged victorious in their final match against Team Robert, securing a remarkable 5-0 win and ultimately claiming the tournament trophy.

• READ: Helenius impresses in Sabres’ annual 3v3 tournament

“After the championship win,” Helenius expressed, “it was an enjoyable week with numerous skilled players. Being on the ice and witnessing their talent was truly fun.”