The Lower Lines
Buffalo will also be more physical this season on the lower lines, with Jordan Greenway adding more edge to a unit that already included a pair of big hitters in Zemgus Girgensons and Peyton Krebs. And speaking of Girgensons, he showed some dynamic leadership capabilities along with Kyle Okposo, and it’s why they will return this season.
Casey Mittelstadt broke out in points with 59, but what you may not remember is how effective he was on the power play last season, with the Buffalo Sabres snagging a 17.1% shooting percentage when he was on the ice during the man advantage.
Of course, Victor Olofsson was once again effective with scoring on the power play and even strength. And you can expect him to, for at least the first half of the season, remain an effective scorer.
Finally, Tyson Jost proved he could be serviceable in a variety of situations. He will most likely play as a fourth liner and extra skater in 2023-24, but when he’s on the ice, expect him to remain an effective player on the PK unit and in the defensive zone.