Drafted 2nd overall by the Buffalo Sabres in 2015, Jack Eichel had been a force ever since he stepped on the ice. He started his preseason strong this year at Pegula Ice Arena by tallying two assists and scoring the game-winning goal in overtime.

Sabres fans are very fond of Eichel, who has already earned alternate captaincy with the team. Just last season, he led the team in points (57), was second in goals (24), and finished third on the team in assists (33). In college at Boston University, he led the nation by tallying 26 goals and 71 points. His outstanding play won him the Hobey Baker award for being the top college hockey player.

Casey Wible, who was a captain on the State College Icers hockey team last season, commented on what it means to be a team captain. “You have to be a good leader before being a good player“, Wible said.

When the Sabres came to Pegula Ice Arena this year to play the Pittsburgh Penguins, Eichel was certainly up to the task. To go with his in-game accomplishments, Eichel “ Finished his interviews, did a full workout in [Penn State’s] weight room after the game, and then went into the locker room, changed and showered very quickly and was the last player on the bus” according to Mike Cross, a Penn State Associate Athletic Director. Cross also said that the work that Eichel put in after the game was “nothing short of extraordinary”.

In conclusion, Eichel is sure to be one of the best players in the league this season and for many years to come. That tremendous work ethic is sure to benefit him in his future years.