By Jeff D'Andrea

Big boy Budik comes into Raiders camp faster and stronger

Aug 29, 2016 | 5:00 PM

During his rookie season with the Prince Albert Raiders last year, Vojtech Budik played at 186 lbs. But this season, he’ll play at a much bigger weight.

Budik said he’s around 200 lbs. now, visibly more muscular and looks to push that weight around when the season starts.

“I did lots of workouts, ice too,” Budik said with a smile.

Like his frame, Budik is poised for a big year as well. Last year, he was named the Raiders’ Most Improved Player, but even still, he wants to show even more in his sophomore season.

“Last season was not bad, but I expect better,” Budik said. “I will work hard this season. It’s going to be OK.”

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Budik started last year as a depth defenceman but ended it on the top d-pairing with Buffalo Sabres prospect Brendan Guhle. Then in the summer, Budik became a Sabres prospect himself after being selected in the fifth round in this past NHL Entry Draft.

After attending the Sabres development camp in the summer, Budik will leave Sept. 13 to attend his first fall camps with the team. The Sabres are also hosting the Prospects Challenge, featuring a mini tournament between the Sabres, New Jersey Devils and Boston Bruins Sept. 16-19. Fellow Raider teammate Simon Stransky could be on the Bruins team, as he was also invited to their camp this pre-season.

“I’m so excited to go to rookie camp and NHL camp,” Budik said. “I’m so happy to be drafted by Buffalo, it’s a great organization. I’m now in P.A., so we’re practicing and playing games for fun.”

In terms of what the team can do, Budik likes what he’s seen at camp with skill on full display.

“We have lots of talent here, I hope we can play in playoffs,” he said.

The Raiders will play their final four-team scrimmages at 4 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. The annual Green and White Intra-Squad Game will wrap up the Raiders training camp on Tuesday at 7 p.m.

Admission to the game will be either a $2 donation to the Food Bank or a non-perishable food item.

jdandrea@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @jeff_dandrea