Two days ago, the Buffalo Sabres re-signed their captain, Kyle Okposo, a polarizing move to say the least, but not a surprising one.
While I can see why a cluster of fans did not want the Buffalo Sabres to retain captain Kyle Okposo, it’s easy to understand why general manager Kevyn Adams wanted him back. Okposo, despite his diminished speed and production, still brings value to the organization thanks to his leadership, among other traits.
It’s also important to remember that Okposo doesn’t need to be on the ice every single night, and barring a rash of injuries, I don’t see him playing any more than 35 games. But to be surprised he’s returning for at least another season? That’s farfetched.
Okposo was a pivotal part of the Blue and Gold’s culture change over the past two seasons that saw the organization evolve from being perennial losers to one who found themselves in playoff contention through 80 games this past season. To maintain that, it came as no surprise to see Okposo return if he felt like he could step in and play another season.
Kyle Okposo’s presence could mean a transition year for the Buffalo Sabres
One reason some fans could have found Okposo’s return surprising is the fact that there are young players on the roster ready to take leadership roles. Rasmus Dahlin is one player who completely evolved into a leader, while Dylan Cozens and Alex Tuch have shown sound leadership skills since the 2021-22 season, and they too evolved this past year.
And overall, the trio appear to be ready to lead, but it also doesn’t hurt to have THE LEADER in Okposo returning for 2023-24 as the Buffalo Sabres transition from his leadership to that of Dahlin, Cozens, and Tuch. Especially when that leader likely won’t play often this year, giving the aforementioned trio a chance to prove their leadership skills on the ice when Okposo is inevitably in the press box.
Source: Buffalo Sabres re-sign a player that may surprise some fans, by Chris Owen, WYRK.com