It is not a secret that the Buffalo Sabres have had a tough 2023-24 season. After just missing out on the postseason last year, the expectation was that they would take another step forward this campaign and finally snap their 12-year playoff drought. However, as it stands right now, the chances of that occurring are slim.
Although this is the case, JJ Peterka has been a massive bright spot for the club this campaign. After an impressive first full season in 2022-23 (12 goals and 32 points in 77 games), the 22-year-old has taken his game to another level in 2023-24. In 49 games, he has a team-leading 18 goals and is tied with Alex Tuch for third on the team with 34 points.
Peterka is emerging into a high-impact player right before our eyes, and he only seems to be getting better as the season rolls on. In the Sabres’ 5-2 win over the San Jose Sharks on Jan. 27, he scored two goals. With that, he also has five goals and two assists over his last five games.