Buffalo Sabres: What Should We Expect From Hudson Fasching?
By Paul Taylor
Hudson Fasching made an instant impression in the NHL, scoring a goal on his debut for the Buffalo Sabres, but what should we expect from the winger moving forward?
As far as first impressions go, it’s tough to top what Hudson Fasching did on his NHL debut for the Buffalo Sabres last season. Certainly, not many players can say they scored with their first shot, in the first period of their first game.
After his stunning debut goal, things calmed down considerably for Fasching in the remainder of his seven appearances for the Sabres. Regardless, the experience proved invaluable, as he added an assist, eight hits and one block, on the way to registering a +2 rating.
Now though, it’s a case of the 20-year old building on this, and showing he has what it takes to enjoy a long career in the NHL. In that respect, he appreciates how important it was to get some exposure last season.
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Speaking recently to John Vogl of The Buffalo News, Fasching said: “It’s always good to feel comfortable where you are. Being able to have a couple games under my belt definitely makes me feel confident in my game.”
This comfort level was only helped, by also playing for the United States at the 2016 IIHF World Championships, in Russia. The winger struggled early on, but improved as the tournament went on, finishing with two assists in 10 games, while averaging 10:02 of ice time.
Fasching said: “Going to the worlds also helped out my confidence a bit playing against professional players. You just feel good about your game.”
If anyone is disappointed by the 2013 fourth round draft pick’s production to date, it is only because so much is expected of him. Analysts drool over his size and strong, two-way game.
In fairness, Fasching appears more determined that ever, to make the necessary adjustments and prove he has what it takes. One person who has noticed this is Dan Lambert, the new head coach of the Rochester Amerks.
Speaking to Vogl at the Sabres recent development camp, Lambert said: “Hudson looks like he’s in better shape today than a few months ago.
“He certainly looks like he’s leaned out, and playing those few weeks in the NHL he probably understood that he needed to be quicker, so to me he looks great. He looks like a guy who isn’t far away from pushing for an NHL job.”
In truth, the only thing that will stop the Milwaukee, Wisconsin native succeeding, is himself. At the very least, he should have a bottom-six role, but his upside alludes to being higher up the depth chart.
Regardless, the next step in Fasching’s development will come during training camp. In that respect, he sounds ready and focused.
The former Los Angeles Kings’ draft pick said: “It’s time for me to show I can take the next step and kind of take over a little bit and take that next step as a player. Just be better, be more in control of the play, in control of the puck and just show that I’ve gotten better.”
Overall, the future looks bright for Fasching. As long as he does what he’s capable of, he will be on the Sabres opening-night roster.
Next: Marcus Foligno's last chance to prove himself
What were your impressions from Fasching’s debut season in the NHL? Moving forward, what do you expect from him as a member of the Sabres? Let us know in the comments section below.