Total Season Stats: 4-13-17 in 80 Games
Age: 23
Contract Status: Restricted Free Agent
There were high hopes for Peyton Krebs heading into this season. He had earned a full-time role with the Sabres in the 2022-2023 season and put up a respectable 26 points in 74 games in a bottom six forward role. However, the step forward Sabre fans were hoping for became a step backward. Krebs went on to put up only 17 points in 80 games. While he primarily played a bottom six role again, he did get some looks up the lineup when injuries occurred. These opportunities were few and largely unremarkable.
When he’s at his best, Krebs combines a high motor with excellent vision and passing skills. He uses his speed and hands to manipulate defenders to open passing lanes in the offensive zone and off the rush. He can be deadly when given time to set up behind the net to find a streaking defenseman attacking through the slot.
His below-average shot coupled with his strict adherence to a “pass-first” mindset does limit his offensive unless he plays with finishers. Most of his time has been spent with forwards like Kyle Okposo and Zemgus Girgensons, neither of which are known for finishing off opportunities at this point in their careers. Krebs has embraced whatever role he’s been given on the Sabres and prides himself on being hard to play against. This was referenced in his locker clean out interview.
In Krebs’ defense, he has not had a defined role on Buffalo since he arrived. Nobody in the organization seems to know how best to utilize his skill set. It will be up to new coach Lindy Ruff to analyze and clearly define a role that best suits Krebs’ skills. Until this happens, Krebs will continue to remain in development limbo, unsure of what areas of his game to focus on to best help the team. If this does not happen, it may be best for both him and the Sabres if they found a fit for him elsewhere.
Season Grade: D