Buffalo Sabres forward Peyton Krebs has filed for salary arbitration, according to an announcement from the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) on Sunday. Krebs, a restricted free agent, is one of 15 NHL players seeking arbitration hearings, which are scheduled to take place between July 20 and August 1.
Why is Peyton Krebs seeking salary arbitration?
Krebs is a restricted free agent coming off a two-year contract with the Sabres worth $2.9 million. The decision follows a career-high season in which the 25-year-old played in all 82 games.
During the most recent season, Krebs recorded 12 goals and 27 assists for 39 points. He also added six points in 13 playoff games. These figures represent his highest statistical marks since entering the league.
The increase in production followed increased opportunities playing alongside top offensive talent. Krebs noted during an end-of-season press conference on May 20 that playing with teammates like Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, and Josh Doan helped elevate his game.
“When you’re playing more and getting opportunities with guys like ‘Tommer’ and ‘Tuchy’ and ‘Doaner’, it’s a lot of fun,” Krebs said. “The NHL can be a rollercoaster, and to play with those guys, it elevates you.”
Peyton Krebs was acquired by the Buffalo Sabres as part of the Jack Eichel trade with the Vegas Golden Knights in November 2021.
What is the Buffalo Sabres’ response to the filing?
Sabres general manager Jarmo Kekalainen expressed confidence that the team and the player will reach a resolution. Speaking to the media on July 1, Kekalainen described Krebs as an “important piece” for the roster.
“Some negotiations take a little less time, and some negotiations take a little more time,” Kekalainen said. He explained that the arbitration process requires both sides to evaluate the potential award range.
Kekalainen noted that while the process is “part of the business,” he expects both parties to eventually find common ground regarding the contract terms.
How does Krebs’ recent performance compare to his career averages?
The recent spike in Krebs’ production marks a significant shift in his statistical trajectory. Over five seasons with the Sabres, the 2019 first-round pick has played 378 games, including playoffs.
His career totals currently stand at 44 goals and 94 assists for 138 points. His most recent season, which yielded 39 points, accounts for approximately 28% of his total career points, highlighting his recent development as a consistent offensive contributor.
Which other NHL players have filed for arbitration?
According to the NHLPA, Krebs is one of 15 players who have filed for arbitration this offseason. The full list of players includes:
- Xavier Bourgault (Ottawa Senators)
- Kirby Dach (Montreal Canadiens)
- Jamie Drysdale (Philadelphia Flyers)
- Jet Greaves (Columbus Blue Jackets)
- Alex Jefferies (New York Islanders)
- Connor McMichael (St. Louis Blues)
- Cole Perfetti (Winnipeg Jets)
- Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars)
- Nick Robertson (Pittsburgh Penguins)
- Akira Schmid (Florida Panthers)
- Braden Schneider (New York Rangers)
- Ronan Seeley (Carolina Hurricanes)
- Cole Sillinger (Columbus Blue Jackets)
- Trevor Zegras (Philadelphia Flyers)
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the arbitration hearings occur?
The hearings are scheduled to take place between July 20 and August 1.
What is Peyton Krebs’ current contract status?
Krebs is a restricted free agent coming off a two-year contract worth $2.9 million.
Is the Sabres management planning to keep Krebs?
General manager Jarmo Kekalainen stated that Krebs is an important part of the team and expressed confidence in finding common ground during negotiations.
What do you think about Krebs’ recent breakout season? Will he secure a long-term deal in Buffalo? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more NHL updates.
