J.J. Peterka becomes the next great two-way player
Let me rephrase that: J.J. Peterka becomes the next great two-way player with defensemen Owen Power. Known for his physical style and ability to score goals from seemingly anywhere, expect a lot out of Peterka in 2022-23.
While it’s up for debate regarding whether he will make the Buffalo Sabres opening night roster, the fact he is not present on the Prospects Challenge roster tells me his chances of making it are pretty good. So expect the winger to at least serve as one of the extra skaters to start things out, and he will see plenty of time at winger on the third line by the time the season ends, potentially rotating in and out with Krebs.
And while he won’t score at the same rate as he did during his final season in Rochester, Peterka will nonetheless enjoy a strong rookie season. One that will establish himself as the team’s next great two-way player heading into 2023-24.
As for 2022-23, I’m looking for Peterka to put away between 35 and 40 points, while threatening the 100-hit mark. When 2023-24 roll around, himself, Dylan Cozens, and Rasmus Asplund will make for one remarkable trio of defensive forwards.
(Statistics provided by Hockey-Reference)