Growing up watching your father play against the best in the National Hockey League is sure to leave a lasting impression, which is exactly what happened to Dylan Hunter. Dylan, the son of former Washington Capitals captain Dale Hunter, started playing hockey at the age of five and is now a top prospect for the Buffalo Sabres.

"I saw how hard those guys work every day. Every day after practice Joe Sakic and Peter Forsberg would shoot 200 pucks on goal, working on their shot. It's part natural ability, but part work ethic. Seeing those guys in the gym an hour after every one else has left stuck with me." (Letsgosabres.com)

That dedicated work ethic paid off last season as Hunter was rewarded for his hard efforts on the ice and recognized as the 2008 Amerks Booster Club Most Improved Player. Hunter, who signed with the Sabres on June 1, 2006, completed his second season with Rochester third on the team in scoring, recording 20 goals for the first time in his professional hockey career. He was also named the Rbk/ AHL Player of the Week for the period ending November 5, 2007.

"Dylan Hunter has great potential instinct and is great when it comes to using his strength to dig in the opponent's corner. He isn't afraid to work hard and give his all when competing." (Letsgoamerks.com).

In his first season with the Amerks in 2006-07, Hunter played in 67 games and finished the season with 28 points, 8 goals and 20 assists. In 2005-2006 Hunter completed his OHL career as the London Knights' all-time leader in assists, 263, and games played with 315. He was ranked fourth in the league in scoring with 117, 32 goals and 85 assists, and was an OHL Second-team All-Star. He finished third in playoff scoring with 36 points, 13 goals and 23 assists, in 19 games.