The Buffalo Sabres began life after Jack Eichel last season when the former Boston University star was traded to Vegas on November 4th, 2021. Shortly before his departure, Eichel was removed as captain by the team in September after failing a physical and refusing to go with the Sabres’ recommendation on treatment for his neck injury. Since then, Kyle Okposo and Zemgus Girgensons have been alternate captains. As they enter the 2022-23 season, it is a distinct possibility that Okposo will become captain.
The 34-year-old Okposo had a bounce-back year in 2021-22 by registering 21-24-45 while taking on a leadership role. His average ice time increased to 16:47, the highest since 2017-18. The former seventh overall pick in 2006 was a key factor in a much improved Sabres team that finished with 75 points, good for fifth in the Atlantic Division. With the ninth overall pick in this year’s draft, Buffalo has a chance to add more good young talent to the team. Tage Thompson emerged as a budding star with 38 goals for Buffalo, which has over $36 million in cap space.
The time is now for Buffalo to continue their climb up the standings, and Kyle Okposo will be leading the way.
