3 – Peyton Krebs, C
Peyton Krebs also morphed into a Kozak-like role, but at the NHL level in 2022-23, and he will likely become the Blue and Gold’s most physical forward this season. Krebs, however, could start the year on the third line if Casey Mittelstadt bumps up to the second to play winger in Jack Quinn’s absence.
Krebs will likely never score over 30 points in a single season, and it’s one reason why so many fans write him off given his status as a former first round pick. But the truth is, the Buffalo Sabres have enough high-profile scorers even without Quinn in the lineup, but they need more defense from their forwards.
Luckily, Krebs gives them that defense, and now that he has a full season of hockey under his belt, look for him to continue to solidify himself in the role. Krebs’ work may go unnoticed by many, but like Kozak, pay close attention to him in camp, and ultimately, the regular season.