Buffalo Sabres Make a Bold Move: Mrtka Selected with 9th Pick in NHL Draft

The Buffalo Sabres have made a significant move by selecting Radim Mrtka, a right-shot defenseman, with the ninth pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Mrtka, hailing from Havlickuv Brod, Czechia, has shown impressive skills this season while playing for the Seattle Thunderbirds in the WHL. He earned 35 points (3 goals and 32 assists) with a plus-10 rating over 43 games, ranking third among rookie defensemen in the league.

At 6-foot-6 and weighing 218 pounds, Mrtka stands out not just for his size but also for his potential. He has been praised for his defensive skills, reach, and skating ability. Interestingly, he didn’t fully commit to hockey until a few years ago, which makes his achievements even more impressive. NHL expert Mike G. Morreale noted, “He never attended skills camps or skating clinics until he was 14. This could mean he has the highest ceiling of any prospect in this draft.” Morreale believes Mrtka’s size and future development could lead to remarkable success in the NHL.

Corey Pronman from The Athletic echoed this sentiment, stating Mrtka could well become a reliable top-four defenseman, capable of handling various game situations. Mrtka himself has acknowledged his past hesitancy to play physically, noting, “When I was younger, I often found myself in the penalty box when I hit someone. Now, as everyone is getting bigger and stronger, I’m ready to embrace that physicality.”

The Sabres already have a strong lineup of left-shot defensemen, including Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. With the recent trade for right-shot defenseman Michael Kesselring, the team is looking to bolster its organizational depth in this area.

NHL Central Scouting describes Mrtka as “a huge, mobile defenseman with good speed and confidence.” His ability to handle the puck well and join offensive plays, coupled with a solid two-way game, highlights his potential. Statistics support this too—defensemen who effectively manage transitions and generate offense from the blue line have become increasingly valuable in today’s game. In fact, recent research shows that teams with strong two-way defensemen have better success rates in maintaining puck possession and creating scoring opportunities.

As fans watch Mrtka develop, many will be intrigued by how his game evolves. Hockey enthusiasts are buzzing on social media, sharing excitement over the Sabres’ focus on a well-rounded, young defenseman who can adapt and grow. Mrtka’s journey highlights how emerging players can shift the dynamics of a team, particularly one with ambitions for a stronger future.

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