Buffalo Sabres: How will each rookie produce in 2022-23?

Rookie #3 – Jack Quinn

Quinn struggled in the Calder Cup Playoffs, but so far, those struggles have been outliers. Like Power, he also had an outstanding NHL debut, even if it lasted just two games, scoring both a goal and an assist.

When he returned to Rochester, Quinn ended the regular season with a ridiculous 61 points in 45 contests, and it makes you wonder how dangerous he could have been if he stayed healthy. For example, Peterka scored 68 in 70 games, so let’s stretch Quinn’s production over that same span. You get 95 points, 40 goals, and 55 assists, which would have paced all AHL rookies by nearly 30 points.

I did rank Quinn 13th in all forwards on the Buffalo Sabres going into the season. But that ranking is nothing more than a starting point. I do believe Quinn’s overall production depends on how well others produce in the lineup, such as Peyton Krebs and Victor Olofsson. If Krebs takes the next step and Olofsson stays hot, look for Quinn to remain on the lower lines this season unless he outplays the duo.

But, if Krebs and Olofsson take a step back, Quinn may end up on the second line. Realistically, I am going to say both Krebs and Olofsson continue to improve, but Casey Mittelstadt (currently my projected second-line center) may struggle again with injuries. If this is the case, Quinn may be the next man up at winger on the second line, which will bump Krebs inside to center.

So, can Quinn contend for the Calder? There is an outside chance that he snags it. But as far as rookies go, I am expecting Owen Power to lead the charge. Quinn, however, will eclipse the 40-point threshold. I’ll get bold and predict he scores 20 goals and tacks on 30 assists for a total of 50, but only if he ends up seeing time on the second line.

(Statistics provided by Hockey-Reference and Hockey DB)