Konsta Helenius has played well in Rochester as a rookie. ©2024, Micheline Veluvolu, Rochester Ameri
The Buffalo Sabres on Monday assigned two of their top forward prospects – AHL rookies Konsta Helenius and Anton Wahlberg – from the Rochester Americans to their respective countries for the upcoming World Junior Championship.
Helenius, 18, will be representing Team Finland, while Wahlberg, 19, will be representing Team Sweden.
Both youngsters played in the tournament last year.
Helenius scored one goal and two points in seven games as Finland lost in the bronze medal game. Meanwhile, Wahlberg recorded one goal and three points in seven outings as Sweden earned the silver medal.
In recent years, the Sabres have let some of their best prospects leave Rochester for two weeks to gain valuable experience at the tournament.
Last year, center Jiri Kulich, a rookie with Buffalo this season, captained Team Czechia to a bronze medal and led the tournament with 12 points.
The tournament starts Thursday in Ottawa.
Helenius, the 14th overall pick this year, and Wahlberg, a second-round pick in 2023, 39th overall, have both stood out in the AHL after playing pro hockey in Europe last season.
After earning a long look from Buffalo in training camp, Helenius has compiled six goals and 17 points in 28 games, including six assists in the last five contests. Wahlberg, a second-round pick in 2023, 39th overall, has recorded six goals and 10 points in 25 games.
