Sabres Prospects Shine at World Juniors: Ziemer, Kleber Capture Gold with Team USA

The Buffalo Sabres’ pipeline of talent was on full display at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, where two of their most promising prospects, Brodie Ziemer and Adam Kleber, played pivotal roles in securing gold for Team USA. In a dramatic 4-3 overtime victory against Finland, the duo helped the Americans rally from a two-goal deficit to claim back-to-back titles for the first time in the program’s history.

Ziemer, Buffalo’s third-round selection in the 2024 NHL Draft, recorded an assist on the golden goal scored by Teddy Stiga, sealing the triumph 8:03 into overtime. The University of Minnesota freshman concluded the tournament with seven points (3+4), a performance that highlighted his offensive instincts and versatility.

Kleber, a second-round pick in 2024, logged just under ten minutes of ice time in the final and finished the tournament with a plus-five rating and an assist through six games. Despite limited minutes in high-pressure situations, the University of Minnesota-Duluth blueliner consistently showcased his defensive reliability and poise.

While Ziemer and Kleber left the tournament with gold, the Sabres’ top prospect, Konsta Helenius, led Finland to a silver-medal finish. Helenius, Buffalo’s first-round pick in 2024, was a force throughout the tournament, tying for fourth in assists with six and earning recognition as one of Finland’s top three players. The 18-year-old logged over 21 minutes in the final, reflecting his importance to Finland’s lineup.

Helenius has continued his development in the AHL with the Rochester Americans, quickly adapting to the North American game. His maturity on and off the ice stands out, having already produced six goals and 17 points in 28 games this season.

Ziemer’s Rise

Ziemer’s tournament was another chapter in what has been a breakout freshman campaign at Minnesota. The 18-year-old winger sits tied for sixth in goals among NCAA freshmen with eight, and his leadership qualities—evident during his captaincy of the U.S. U-18 team—translated well to the world stage. Whether scoring timely goals or contributing defensively, Ziemer’s relentless work ethic and two-way game stood out to scouts.

Kleber’s Steady Growth

Kleber may not have lit up the scoreboard, but his contributions on the blue line didn’t go unnoticed. At 6-foot-6, the physical defenseman uses his reach effectively, breaking up plays and excelling on the penalty kill. His tournament experience adds to a solid freshman season at Minnesota-Duluth, where he’s been a reliable presence despite modest offensive numbers.

Wahlberg’s Offensive Surge

Anton Wahlberg, Buffalo’s second-round pick in 2023, led Sweden in scoring with eight points (4+4) in seven games. Wahlberg’s progression was evident despite a heartbreaking shootout loss to Czechia in the bronze medal game. His ability to contribute in all situations has translated to his role with the Rochester Americans, where he’s accumulated ten points in 25 games this season.

Strbak’s Leadership

Maxim Strbak, Buffalo’s 2023 second-round pick, captained Slovakia and finished with six points in five games. His goal in Slovakia’s overtime win against Kazakhstan underscored his offensive upside, while his defensive play and ice-time leadership reinforced his standing as one of the top young blueliners in the Sabres’ system. Strbak will return to Michigan State, where he has been instrumental in their success this season.

Panocha’s Development Continues

Norwin Panocha, a seventh-round selection in 2023, was less prolific offensively but maintained a leadership role for Germany. He will continue his development with the Green Bay Gamblers in the USHL. Panocha’s path to the NHL may require more seasoning, but his experience at the World Juniors adds another layer to his growth.

Looking Ahead

The Sabres’ prospects left an indelible mark on this year’s World Juniors, signaling a bright future for the organization. As players like Ziemer, Helenius, and Kleber continue to develop, Buffalo’s prospect pool remains one of the league’s most promising. For Sabres fans, the success at the World Juniors offers a glimpse into a future fueled by talent, hard work, and potential.