As everyone knows, it's been a long time since the Buffalo Sabres were one of the best teams in hockey. In addition to that, it has been a extended period since they had a good fourth line. A huge reason why the team is where it is right now at this point of the season is because of that fourth line.
Right now, the Sabres are first place in the Atlantic Division with a record of 41-20-6. With 88 points and 15 games remaining, the playoffs are firmly within reach for the team who has the longest postseason drought in the NHL. Their most recent win against the Toronto Maple Leafs puts them one win closer of ending the drought.
Like I said earlier, a big reason why Buffalo has been successful is because of their bottom six, specifically the fourth line.
The Sabres have key difference-makers on the fourth line
It has been far too long since the Sabres had a productive bottom line.
If you were to ask me, Beck Malenstyn is the MVP of the line. What he does each game to ensure the team has success should not be ignored. Not only can he cause havoc with physical play (233 hits), but he can kill penalties, block shots (64 this season) and score a few highlight-reel goals as well.
Sam Carrick's contribution to the team has also benefited from them. Ever since getting traded to Buffalo from the New York Rangers, Carrick has been an excellent pickup. In his five games played with Buffalo, Carrick has two goals and one assist for three points.
In addition to those two players, Peyton Krebs, Tyson Kozak, Tanner Pearson and Josh Dunne deserve some love too. All of these guys don't have a ton of goals or points, but they are contributing in different ways.
Having that many viable options for the bottom line gives head coach Lindy Ruff a chance to test out different combinations before the playoffs arrive to ensure the strongest forward group possible.
As Buffalo is on the West Coast this week, look for the fourth line to continue their hard work and grittiness. Pearson missed the Maple Leafs game with a lower-body injury but he could be back in the lineup tomorrow when Buffalo goes to Vegas for a matchup with the Golden Knights.
While other players on the roster deserve ample credit, I had to give a shoutout to the depth guys for what they do. This team has some grit finally because of these players.