Buffalo Sabres: 5 bold predictions heading into the 2022-23 season

Nov 21, 2021; New York, New York, USA; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Mark Pysyk (13) celebrates with defenseman Rasmus Dahlin (26) and center John Hayden (15) during the second period against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2021; New York, New York, USA; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Mark Pysyk (13) celebrates with defenseman Rasmus Dahlin (26) and center John Hayden (15) during the second period against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
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It is not so bold to believe that the Buffalo Sabres will be a better hockey team in 2022-23. But there are a few bold predictions we can make here.

Although this article lists just five bold predictions regarding the Buffalo Sabres, there isn’t a shortage of them regarding any player on the roster. We can go bold and project Dylan Cozens to hit 50 points this season, or for Casey Mittelstadt to finally play like the eighth overall selection they drafted.

But each projection you are about to see below are dealing with big-time accomplishments like a career-high in points for a 13-year veteran, awards and honors, and even a season sweep. Now that you have a preview of what I am about to talk about, let’s discuss five bold predictions for the Buffalo Sabres in 2022-23.

Buffalo Sabres
Apr 17, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Buffalo Sabres left wing Jeff Skinner (53) against the Philadelphia Flyers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Five bold predictions for the Buffalo Sabres heading into the 2022-23 season – Prediction #1 – Jeff Skinner eclipses 63 points

Some say the Buffalo Sabres are responsible for one of the worst contract signings in NHL history. At least until Jeff Skinner erupted for 63 points, 33 goals, and 30 assists last season. When the Sabres got healthy in March and April 2022, it was lights out for the team as a scoring unit, with Skinner and company enjoying outstanding production.

In 2022-23, expect fewer scoring slumps from the Sabres and their players. And Skinner will benefit after spending a season on the first line with Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch. That added chemistry will take Skinner a long way and he will set a new career high in points.

I am not expecting him to shatter his own record. But I will say that he will score between 65 and 70 times, putting up 30-plus goals in back-to-back seasons for the first time in his career.