Jiri Kulich is in that awkward stage of his career, one in which he’s making quite a few appearances with the Sabres, but he’s still fringe as far as NHL players go. For a while, I knew Kulich had an NHL-ready shot and was likely ready to at least make a few appearances with the big club last season, which happened just once.
This year, Kulich still doesn’t look like he’s a surefire NHL talent, but he’s also been one whose growth has been evident. That said, I wouldn’t mind seeing Kulich see time in between 40-50 games and act as the first recall if one of the star forwards goes down with an injury unless the Sabres manage to finally find that top-six forward (how many times have I said that this year?).
Last night, Kulich was the hero in what was a comeback win over the Anaheim Ducks, scoring the game-winning goal, the first game-winner and second overall goal of his young career. While those have been his only two points in 11 contests, Kulich has been rather effective in so many other areas this season.
Jiri Kulich is slowly turning into a force for the Sabres
Kulich is a winger, but one who has been effective in the faceoff dot with 18 wins and a 62.1 percentage. The Blue and Gold can count on him to help his team maintain possession and even create opportunities, given his plus-50 so far in Corsi For at even strength.
He’s not the most physical player out there, but he’s got an edge, with 10 hits and four takeaways. Those aren’t bad numbers for someone who’s still very new to the NHL, but what has impressed me the most about Kulich is that he’s got a 95.5 on-ice save percentage at even strength, with three goals allowed so far when he’s on the ice.
This means he’s more than helping the cause on defense, something the Sabres have struggled in nearly all season, sans a game here or there. Overall, we won’t see Kulich put up anything flashy, but that shouldn’t take away from his overall effective play so far.
No, this praise doesn’t mean he shouldn’t be reassigned to the AHL. I would still keep him in Rochester when not needed for the big club, but he’s pristine organizational depth as far as this season goes, which could open a full-time role for the youngster next season.