3 Buffalo Sabres who took a step forward in 2023/2024

2. JJ Peterka

Up next is JJ Peterka. In his second season, JJ took a big leap from his rookie year. During the 2022/2023 campaign, Peterka had 12 goals and 20 assists in 77 games played. This season, he scored 28 goals and registered 22 assists. He was also the only Sabres player to play in all 82 games this year as well.

Ever since being placed on the top line, Peterka took his game to the next level. Even though he didn't get any points in the last five games of the season, he put together a really good sophomore campaign. JJ did take a small dip after a hot start but finished strong during the last month or so of the season.

I cannot wait to see what he does next year and going forward as he will be a cornerstone player.

3. Zach Benson

The Sabres 2023 first-round pick is the final player who took a step forward this season. In 71 games played, Zach Benson scored 11 goals and registered 19 assists during his rookie year. While his numbers weren't anything crazy, it was a successful first NHL season for the 18-year-old from British Columbia.

Anytime you can get double digits in goals in your first season is pretty impressive, especially with how difficult the NHL is. Benson made the opening night roster after a strong preseason and did pretty well in the games he played.

He registered 30 points in his first year and I can't wait to see how he does going forward in his career.