‘Spending additional time overseas was likely always going to be the path for Olofsson, of course. Seventh-round picks aren’t expected to make immediate jumps to the NHL. But the wise move the Sabres made was allowing him to improve back home before bringing him over. Playing against men while still a junior-aged player helped, just as it helps many of the top-tier European prospects make smooth transitions as rookies. For instance, when Kaapo Kakko made his NHL debut last week, it wasn’t a huge change for the star prospect because he already had a full season of pro under his belt. In Olofsson’s case, he had three years of experience before the transition to North America last season. Once he adjusted to the smaller ice, he was dangerous. It also doesn’t hurt that he’s several years older than a number of his rookie counterparts.’