Feature Photo: Getty Images
Whenever he wants to take a little break from screen time, Owen Power is happy to book it.
Power, currently in his third NHL season, all with the Buffalo Sabres, was singled out by teammates Tage Thompson and JJ Peterka as the teammate most likely to start a book club during an installment of the NHLPA’s “Most Likely To” series.
“On the plane rides, I normally have a book, so I’m assuming it’s why they said that,” said Power with a laugh.
“But I think JJ would be on that list too, honestly.”
Power’s penchant for picking up a book isn’t something new.
The former University of Michigan standout has had a longstanding appreciation for reading.
“I think it’s nice because you are on screens so much, whether it’s a laptop or your phone, so it’s nice to put those away and read. I also find it very relaxing – you don’t have the light flashing and so much going on.”
Since joining the NHL ranks in 2021-22, the 2021 first overall pick has used reading as a way to relax during road trips.
“It’s something that I do to help pass the time. Obviously, with the NHL, you fly a lot, so you need to find things to do.
“Right now, I’m reading a health-related book. I will also read things about skill development – it’s a variety of things that can maybe help me get an edge.”
It’s no doubt working.
The defenceman is off to a strong start this season for a Buffalo team looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 2011.
After a tough start to the campaign, the Sabres are now 11-11-2 after sweeping three games on a recent California road trip, including a 3-2 overtime win in Anaheim on Nov. 22.
The game happened to fall on Power’s 22nd birthday.
“That was one of the more memorable [birthdays] that I can recall,” said Power, who assisted on both the game-tying and game-winning goals.
“Results like that and that trip to California gives you confidence that we are headed in the right direction.”
Power and his teammates started their season on the road with Buffalo finishing their training camp in Munich, Germany, including an exhibition game against Deutsche Eishockey Liga’s Red Bull Munich on Sept. 27 for the brand new SAP Garden’s grand-opening event.
The Sabres’ went on to begin their 2024-25 NHL season with a pair of games against the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia, as part of the NHL Global Series. Despite coming out on the losing end in both regular-season contests against the Devils, Power felt the overall experience was beneficial for building team chemistry to start the season.
“With how many new guys we have this year, it was nice to spend time in that unique way, for everyone to get to know one another and gel as a team. Just hanging out together and enjoying that experience was great for us.”
Power, who has played in Europe on several occasions with Team Canada, was especially thrilled to be back in Prague.
“I love it there. It’s so beautiful, the food is great, and the people are so nice. It’s one of my favourite cities that I have ever been to. They also love hockey and have such great respect and passion for the game.”
Just like the young blueliner who is well on pace to have his best offensive NHL season to date.
Team success, however, tops the list of his goals for 2024-25.
“The one thing we all want is the shot to play for the Stanley Cup,” said Power.
“We feel good about our group, and everyone is on the same page.”
As for what his next book choice will be, Power hasn’t looked that far ahead.
Like hockey, his focus is always on the current chapter before turning the page.
“Whether you win or lose, you have to put it behind you and move on to the task at hand.”
And while he has no plans to start a book club, Power will continue to indulge in his joy of reading.
“It’s really about finding things that interest me and things I can learn about – I have always liked that.”
