Sabres' top draft pick, Grigorenko, 18, makes Buffalo's active roster as opener nears

Mikhail Grigorenko, the Sabres' first-round draft pick last summer, has made Buffalo's active roster.

Grigorenko, 18, has been skating on a line with veterans Steve Ott and Ville Leino all week after posting 29 goals in 33 games in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League during the NHL Lockout. With Buffalo forwards Nathan Gerbe and Cody McCormick headed to injured reserve, a spot was open on the 23-man roster for the youngster.

Meanwhile, forwards Kevin Porter and Nick Tarnasky as well as defenceman Adam Pardy all cleared waivers and were assigned to Rochester of the AHL.

The Sabres open the shortened season at home Sunday against the Philadelphia Flyers. Buffalo is coming off a disappointing 39-32-11 season in which it did not qualify for the post-season.