BUFFALO, N.Y. — Jiri Kulich was initially ruled out of the Prospects Challenge with a nagging injury that he arrived to Buffalo with, but further evaluations have cleared the hot-shot forward to play in his first game action for the Sabres Saturday night against the Devils.

Just since development camp in July where he signed his three-year entry-level deal with Buffalo, Kulich had eight points in seven games at World Juniors as part of a historic run for Team Czechia. His continued success on the international stage excites Amerks head coach Seth Appert, who applauds Kulich's work ethic specifically as he welcomes a potential transition to Rochester.

What You Need To Know

  • Jiri Kulich was drafted by the Sabres with the third of their three first-round picks this year, 28th overall in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft

  • The Czech skater stood out at Sabres development camp in July and has continued to impress coaches with skills beyond his age

  • Kulich is aiming to make Buffalo's NHL roster, but could play in Rochester or back home in Czechia this season

"Most goal scorers at that young of an age don't play very hard," Appert said of the 18-year-old. "That's the reality. They just don't. They don't know how to work, they don't know how to forecheck, be responsible defensively, because they've been the best players on their teams their whole life and they score so many goals that they're allowed to get away with things."

"He has a work ethic, and a so-called B-game about him," Appert said. "That also gives us a lot of confidence about bringing him over here this year, that he won't be overwhelmed."

Kulich credits his talents beyond the notorious shot to coming up in the Czech Extraliga, where he led all junior-aged players in points with 49.

"They helped me so, so much, mentally," Kulich said. "I think now I'm a better player, in the physical game, but better mentally."