Sabres GM Speaks On Contract Standoff With Peyton Krebs

The Buffalo Sabres are nearing the start of their 2024-25 training camp, but the contract standoff with restricted free agent Peyton Krebs remains unresolved. 

A key piece in the Jack Eichel trade with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2021, Krebs has yet to sign the qualifying offer he received earlier in the offseason. 

"We’ll see how the next couple of days go, and I’d like to give it a few more days before I address it," said Adams on WGR. "But these things take time sometimes. It’s a process but, we’ll see where we are in 48 hours."

Peyton Krebs embraced every role he was given this season.

Listen to his full interview: https://t.co/CFpAnwQX9b pic.twitter.com/IIvWJ6hqeX

— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) April 18, 2024

Krebs, 23, has struggled to establish a consistent role in Buffalo, particularly last season when he was often relegated to a fourth-line energy role. 

Despite occasional opportunities to play higher in the lineup, Krebs managed only 17 points in 80 games, and his offensive production stagnated. 

The Sabres’ offseason additions of forwards Ryan McLeod, Sam Lafferty, and Beck Malenstyn have further complicated Krebs' chances of securing a more prominent role under new head coach Lindy Ruff. 

With prospects like Jiri Kulich, Isak Rosen, and Konsta Helenius pushing for roster spots, the competition is fierce, placing additional pressure on Krebs to secure his place in the lineup.

"Obviously there’s a lot of talent on the ice," Adams said. "We have skill, and everybody knows that in the hockey world. But I like how hard our guys are competing. Second effort, hard on pucks, winning puck battles.

Kevyn Adams was on WGR during intermission last night. Peyton Krebs is a RFA, “We’ll see how the next couple of days go and I’d like to give it a few more days before I address it, but these things take time sometimes and it’s a process but, we’ll see where we are in 48 hours.”

— Paul Hamilton (@pham1717) September 15, 2024

While he could still accept his qualifying offer and fight for his place, a trade may become an option if the impasse continues. 

With the team heading overseas and training camp fast approaching, the next few days will be critical in determining whether Krebs remains a part of the Sabres' long-term plans or if Adams explores other avenues.

"Lindy and I addressed the rookies a couple of days ago and told them, especially with this unique training camp and us going to Europe very quickly, these games right here are their opportunity to show they’re ready to make a push. They’re doing that, because their job is to make our job hard."

Photo Credit:  Sergei Belski-Imagn Images