Buffalo Sabres and Columbus Blue Jackets prospects kick off the season with an intense fight

Fans of both teams were treated to an exciting display of skill, determination, and some unexpected fireworks.

The Sabres showcased five of their top first-round picks, including Konsta Helenius (2024, 14th overall), Noah Ostlund (2022, 16th overall), Jiri Kulich (2022, 28th overall), Isak Rosen (2021, 14th overall), and Ryan Johnson (2019, 31st overall). On the Blue Jackets' side, first-rounders Denton Mateychuk (2022, 12th overall) and Corson Ceulemans (2021, 25th overall) led the charge.

The game's intensity boiled over in the third period, starting with a fight between Sabres' Ty Cheveldayoff and Blue Jackets' Nick DeAngelis. The two players dropped the gloves in what became a memorable moment of the match.

With the Sabres up 3-1, Jack Bodin took on Mael Lavigne, adding to the game's physicality, and Bodin eventually dominated the fight.

Rookie camps are often intense, as young players look to impress coaches in any way possible. For some, like Cheveldayoff and Bodin, physicality is one way to stand out from the competition. While the fights added excitement, the primary goal of these camps remains skill development and earning a place on the main roster.

Despite the heated confrontations, no injuries were reported, and all players involved are expected to continue competing throughout the rest of the camp.

Source: Blade of Steel
Fights highlight opening rookie tournament game between the Buffalo Sabres & Columbus Blue Jackets}»