This Buffalo Sabres newcomer could hit a new level in 2024-25.
Earlier this offseason, the Buffalo Sabres acquired Beck Malenstyn from the Washington Capitals in exchange for the 43rd overall pick of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft (Cole Hutson). With this move, the Sabres added a young forward coming off a breakout season.
Malenstyn, 26, cemented himself as a legitimate NHL player in 2023-24, posting new career highs with six goals, 15 assists, 21 points, and 241 hits in 81 games. Overall, he provided some offense to go along with a plethora of grit for the Capitals and became a nice part of their bottom six. Now, he will look to do the same for the Sabres from here.
However, when noting that this was Malenstyn's first full season in the NHL, it is fair to wonder if he may not have hit his ceiling yet. As he continues to adjust to the sport's most competitive league, it is possible that he could improve his offense. If he does, he could become a complete steal for the Sabres.
Beck Malenstyn
Malenstyn has shown that he works well as a heavy-hitting, bottom-six grinder, so he should be a solid addition to the Sabres' lineup, no matter what. However, it will now be very interesting to see if he can build on his offensive totals next season and onward. If he does, he could even flirt with landing a top-nine role with the Sabres.
Nevertheless, seeing what kind of season Malenstyn puts together for the Sabres will be fascinating. Given his gritty style of play, it should not take too long for him to become a well-liked player in Buffalo. Yet, if he grows his offensive game, he could be a real force for the club.
