Buffalo Sabers 2024 Player Report Card: Peyton Krebs

Total season stats: 4-13-17 in 80 games

Age: 23

Contract status: Restricted free agent

There were high hopes for Peyton Krebs before this season. He had earned a full-time role with the Sabers during the 2022-23 season and had a respectable 26 points in 74 games in a bottom-six forward role. However, the step forward that Saber fans were hoping for has become a step back. Krebs only had 17 points in 80 games. Although he once again played primarily a bottom-six role, he did some spotting in the lineup during injuries. These opportunities were rare and largely mundane.

When at his best, Krebs combines high motor skills 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 run. He can be deadly when given time to set up behind the net to find a defender attacking through the slot.

His below-average shooting, coupled with his strict adherence to a “pass first” mindset, limits his offense unless he plays with finishers. Most of his time was spent with forwards like Kyle Okposo and Zemgus Girgensons, neither of whom are known for grabbing opportunities at this stage of their careers. Krebs has accepted the role he has been given with the Sabers and prides himself on being difficult to play against. This was mentioned in his interview about cleaning lockers.