The Buffalo Sabres are beginning to look like a legitimate playoff contender. Now many decisions will need to be made to get them to have the "x" by their name in the standings for clinching a spot in the postseason for the first time in 15 years.
One player they must decide on is center Peyton Krebs. Two years ago, it seemed to be destiny the team would move on and trade Krebs. However, he stepped last season to have a successful, well-rounded campaign.
This year, he has continued to add value but is that enough for the Sabres to want to re-sign him? Or should they instead use him to get a missing piece for the postseason this year?
Peyton Krebs is a restricted free agent after the 2025-26 NHL season
The last regime, led by Kevyn Adams, decided not to move Krebs and it paid off in terms of his on-ice performance. He is versatile, as shown by his recent stint on the top line, but now, more than ever, the Sabres need to make the right call. A season ago, they would not have gotten much value.
Now based on his performance the last two seasons, they would probably be able to get more for him. But if that is not what they want to do, why not work out the contract extension now?
It would be a remarkable moment for this organization to make the postseason. That cannot be the singular goal, though. One seven-game series for one season. They need to play for the future and figure out who will be a part of the long-term change.
Krebs aggressive play shows a strength that generates chances. He is on pace to have the most hits of his career. A few nights ago, he added two assists in a two-goal victory against the Anaheim Ducks.
He still has a chance to play hard and tough before the Olympic break. That would be the ideal moment if the Sabres wanted to re-sign the 24-year-old center to take care of it instead of waiting after the break and have only a week or so to decide before the deadline.
If the Sabres are able to make the postseason, every single member should be remembered fondly by the Sabre fanbase. However, many of those players may wish to be a part of the organization after that potentially monumental moment.
The front office will need to decide sooner than later if Krebs will be one of those players. At some point before the deadline, perhaps during the Olympic break, seems like that perfect moment.