Talent Analysis

Armia is the best goal-scoring talent that the Sabres have drafted since Thomas Vanek. The Finnish product is still growing into his 6’3” frame but when he does he could be a combination of size and skill that is rarely seen. He has very good hands and is a remarkable stick handler. He still needs to work on his defensive game and he is not overly physical for his size but he doesn’t shy away from contact either.


Future

The Sabres will be patient with Armia and allow him to develop in Finland where he is most comfortable for the foreseeable future. Playing in the top league in Finland, he will gain valuable experience against professionals, which should give him the upper-hand over other players in his draft year. Armia will stay in Finland until 2013 when his contract his up and then make the jump to Western New York for the 2013-14 season. He could step right in for the Sabres at that time or head to Rochester for a season of maturation in the AHL.