Buffalo Sabres: 3 forwards who will return in 2022-23

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The Buffalo Sabres have a plethora of players that they need to make a decision on. Here are three forwards that will return to the organization.

The Buffalo Sabres struggled with injuries last season, which prompted a number of Rochester Americans to join the team for a select number of games. Others accompanied the team on road trips, serving as a taxi squad in case they needed to make last-second roster arrangements.

That said, expect the Sabres to re-sign both players who contributed to the primary and AHL rosters in 2021-22. A couple of names may also comprise the Amerks top scoring line next season, with the likes of Peyton Krebs, Jack Quinn, and J.J. Peterka projected to secure spots on the main roster.

Who will return to the Buffalo Sabres in 2022-23?

In the following slides, you will find three players that made notable contributions at either the NHL or AHL level. But first, let’s talk about a few names who won’t be back.

While Cody Eakin proved himself on the fourth line as an asset to win face-offs and kill penalties, his productivity suffered (seven goals in 115 games). A defensive-minded forward is someone everyone needs, and Eakin provided that. But there are younger options available.

Drake Caggiula provides value with leadership. But with just 28 games in two seasons for the Sabres, his limited sample size and production has given them no reason to re-sign him. So who will return? Keep reading for more.

Vinnie Hinostroza

Hinostroza was a disappointment in previous stops over the last two seasons. And things looked like they were headed south in Buffalo when injuries crept up. Fortunately for Hinostroza, he logged 13 goals in 62 games, his highest since 2018-19 when he compiled 16 in 72 outings.

He won’t stick around on the second or perhaps even the third scoring line next season. But his familiarity with head coach Don Granato (the two were together in Chicago) and his previously stated interest in returning will warrant the Sabres to sign him to a new deal.

At 28, he can further evolve into a mentor/leadership role with the team, which further increases his value. Listed as a center, Hinostroza also saw time at both winger positions in 2021-22, flashing versatility. No, he is not the most exciting player on the ice, but he is an important puzzle piece that Granato can insert for 10 to 12 minutes per game.

Sean Malone

Malone has just two games of NHL experience. But he enjoyed a renaissance in Rochester, finishing the season with 37 points in 39 games, 20 of which went for goals. He may have ended up on the Sabres main roster had it not been for an unfortunate injury. But nonetheless, Malone bounced back and played some respectable hockey.

He also scored seven points (2 + 5) in 10 playoff games, showing that his productivity was not just limited to the regular season. He will return to the organization and may start the season on Rochester’s top scoring line.

Don’t be surprised if he makes a few cameo appearances for the Sabres next season. Especially if the injury bug strikes again. Overall, Malone makes for an outstanding depth signing.

Ryan MacInnis

MacInnis spent most of his career in the AHL, playing for four different teams. He also has 27 games of NHL experience, which gives him a little more value. However, he has just one career point. But with so many Amerks slated to join or at least challenge for a spot on the Sabres roster, the organization needs depth, and MacInnis provides it.

He was productive, but not spectacular, with 27 points in 49 games, including 11 goals. He won’t challenge anyone for a spot on the main roster, but MacInnis will at least compete for a spot on the Amerks top scoring line.

Other notable forwards mentioned in previous articles that should return include John Hayden and Mark Jankowski. Hayden was the team’s best defensive-minded forward who acts as a human sledgehammer. He also has an enforcer mentality.

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Jankowski is a possession-oriented player who was arguably the best forward on the Amerks not named J.J. Peterka, Peyton Krebs, or Jack Quinn. He should, at worst, return to the Amerks if he doesn’t secure a spot on the fourth line.

Article Source: Inside the Sabres: Predicting which unrestricted free agents return by Lance Lyowski.

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