Buffalo Sabres: Ostlund and Wahlberg Secure Silver Medals, Kulich Earns Bronze at World Juniors
Buffalo Sabres prospects Noah Ostlund and Anton Wahlberg represented Sweden at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship and played a vital role in their team’s success. Although Sweden ultimately fell short in the championship game, they still managed to secure silver medals.
In the final match, the United States emerged victorious with a 6-2 win. The Americans scored three unanswered goals in the third period, proving to be the turning point of the game. Despite the outcome, Ostlund stood out and was recognized as Sweden’s Player of the Game. He contributed to Sweden’s offensive efforts with one assist, three shots on goal, and 10 attempted shots.
During the second intermission, with the score standing at 3-1 in favor of the United States, Ostlund played a crucial role in Sweden’s comeback. Seamus Casey of the American team was penalized, resulting in a power play opportunity for Sweden in the last minute of the period. Ostlund made a key pass to Axel Sandin Pellikka, who then assisted in setting up Jonathan Lekkerimaki’s goal from the point. Meanwhile, Wahlberg provided effective screening in front of the opposing net, allowing Sweden to narrow the deficit to just one goal.
Ultimately, these efforts were not enough to secure the gold medal for Sweden, but it showcased the talent and potential of Ostlund, Wahlberg, and the entire Swedish team.