Total Season Stats: 3-2-5 in 21 Games
Age: 22
Contract Status: RFA
In his third pro season, Tyson Kozak took another step in his development. The 22-year-old center made his NHL debut on December 5th and spent a majority of the season bouncing back and forth between Rochester and Buffalo. What he lacks in size (5’11”) and point production, the former 7th rounder in 2021 makes up for with grit and determination.
Kozak was one of Buffalo’s first call ups when there were injuries to their forwards. When called upon, he was a serviceable 4th line center who consistently went to the dirty areas to make an impact. He averaged .24 points per game while averaging only 10:29 of ice time per game. Those numbers won’t jump out at anyone, but it’s a good start for a young center getting his first look at a 4th line role in the NHL.
He scored his first NHL goal in his second career game on December 7th against Winnipeg. He drove the net on a 3v2 rush and redirected the centering pass past the goaltender. Kozak was most effective in front of the net or in the corners. He finishes checks and plays with a constant motor. There is a role on Buffalo for a hard-nosed 4th line center, and Kozak is starting to state his case for the position.
Kozak exceeded preseason expectations with his time spent in Buffalo. He spent some significant time on the NHL roster and showed he can compete at the NHL level. This is a big offseason for him as he tries to claim a full-time role with Buffalo. He shows promise as a bottom six center that brings an infectious work ethic and a willingness to make his mark in the trenches.
Season Grade: B