Sabres Draft Rudolph in Buffalo

NHL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jun 27, 2026 · 1m

Buffalo Sabres shock the hockey world by drafting Daxon Rudolph fourth overall—after barely talking to him that morning—making him the first defenseman selected in a deep draft. A trade earlier in the week gave them the pick, and Rudolph, who’s friends with many top defensemen, is thrilled to be crowned the best. Scouts rave about his puck-moving and smart positioning, especially for a right-shot defenseman. He’ll join the powerhouse Denver Pioneers next year, where he’ll face elite competition and bulk up, though some think he’s ready to contribute sooner. When he joins the Sabres, he’ll…