Kyle Okposo is known to be a leader. His performances on the ice when he played for the Islanders prove that he is a natural leader, and he can help his team win.
However, Okposo’s contributions have been minimal while the Sabres continue to stay in the basement of the NHL standings.
His effort during their three-game winning streak shows that he is beginning to find his ways again. In Buffalo’s last seven games, Okposo has three goals and 10 points and has managed to score five points in the last five games.
“I hope I’m going to play better,’” he said. “You’ve got to actively work at getting better.”
Okposo started the season in a rough patch, only notching 11 points in the first 23 games of the season. Since early December, he has 18 points in his last 21 games, and the Sabres have even given him some time on the top line.
Okposo needs to continue his effort, regardless, as the Sabres are last in the NHL in goals per game, with only 2.3. If he continues to struggle, he will fail to reach the 40+ point mark for the first time since the shortened 2013-14 season. Okposo is mindful of the work that still needs to be done.
“I really want to get back to the level that I know I’m capable of and being an elite player. I feel like it’s been a trying year for me mentally but there’s some things I’ve really liked about my game in the last 20 and I’m really looking forward to keep getting better. I want to get to the place where every night I’m helping my team out.” – Okposo
Okposo’s production over the remaining half of the season will be a key component to the Sabres’ ability to produce goals and win games. If he can continue to support Buffalo’s first line and produce goals on the power play, Buffalo may finally be able to rise out of the last spot in the NHL.
On a positive note, Jack Eichel has certainly helped Buffalo score, recording his first career hat trick against the Hurricanes in December, and has 25 points since. If Eichel and Okposo can continue their impressive efforts, especially during a time of rebuilding for Buffalo, they eventually will turn the Sabres into a top team.
Kyle Okposo and the Sabres look to continue their hot streak against the New Jersey Devils tonight as they begin a five-game homestand.