Despite sky-high expectations, the Sabres may try to protect Eichel in the early going by playing him on the third line, reports the Olean Times Herald.

EDGE Analysis

Eichel will be the top pivot in Buffalo sooner than later, but the idea is to ease him into the big leagues before letting him loose. Ryan O'Reilly is penciled in as the team's top center with Zemgus Girgensons on the second line and David Legwand on the fourth. Sam Reinhart, also a center, will likely begin the season on the wing. Given the limited role, Eichel may not set the league on fire in his first month, but will certainly improve throughout the season, which is something to keep in mind for fantasy owners looking to stash him.

Eichel notched an assist just 25 seconds into the game in a 6-2 win over New Jersey on Saturday.

EDGE Analysis

Eichel and linemates Nick Baptiste and Evan Rodrigues were on fire Saturday night, combining for six points in the win. Though Eichel was held to a single point, he looked sharp on offense, thanks to some built-in chemistry with Rodrigues, who was also his linemate at Boston U. The early success only bodes well for Eichel's future and he's an excellent pick for fantasy owners looking for high upside players.