This re-signed forward could be a future X-factor for the Sabres

The Sabres have re-signed forward Tyson Kozak to a three-year deal worth an average of $775,000 per season, the team announced Wednesday. The deal is two-way for the first year and one-way for the remaining two years.

Kozak, 22, made his NHL debut Dec. 5 and played 21 games as a rookie for the Sabres, tallying five points while averaging 10:29 of ice time. Kozak earned head coach Lindy Ruff’s praise for his reliable, two-way performance on the fourth line.

This is where things can get interesting for Kozak, as he has a real chance of making the main roster next season. The Sabres need more players like Kozak, guys who are willing to play both ends of the ice and make an impact.

Not only can Kozak use his offensive skills, but he could also be useful on the penalty kill going forward as well. Kozak recorded 14 points in 31 regular-season games with the Rochester Americans, plus four points in eight Calder Cup Playoff games.

With the Justin Danforth signing, this is the perfect time for Kozak to play with someone who shares his style. Danforth had 120+ hits last season for the Blue Jackets, but also recorded 20+ points.

Kozak has an even better skill set, which makes his ceiling so much higher with the Sabres. Kozak can develop one more year with the Sabres and Americans, like he did this past year, and then ride out the rest of his contract on the main roster.

An ideal fourth line in my eyes next season would be Kozak-Danforth-Rosen, as this line has the firepower with Rosen’s goalscoring ability, and the grit from Danforth and Rosen.

Kozak may turn some heads in training camp this year, as the younger player could be valuable to the Sabres franchise for years to come.