Buffalo Sabres 2025-26 Player Grades: Tyson Kozak

The Buffalo Sabres have their work cutout for themselves going into the offseason. Contract extensions, potentially huge trades, and the NHL Draft are all on the checklist of Sabres General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen.

As we prepare for the offseason to really get underway, it is time to look back on the 2025-26 season. That’s right, it’s player grade time! Today, we take a closer look at one of the more unsung yet solid bottom-six players: Tyson Kozak.

Production

Offensively, there isn’t a whole lot to write home about when it comes to a fourth-line center. Kozak had just two goals and four assists in 46 regular season games for the Sabres, consistently moving into and out of the lineup.

Where Kozak stands out is playing with tenacity. He finished four on the club with 120 hits and stepped in admirably when Sam Carrick was out with an injury. He also won 48.3% of his faceoffs, better than two percent better than the season before.

Intangibles

Kozak isn’t going to jump off the screen for any real reason, but his hustle has gotten him this far. The 2021 seventh-round pick has gotten to this point through sheer will, toughness, and determination. His 5-foot-11 frame isn’t ever going to be intimidating, but he plays with an edge that makes him formidable.

He can play wing or center on the fourth line, and his speed and tenacity combo would likely earn a closer look higher in the lineup for other teams. The Sabres are deep at forward, making it tougher for the young forward to crack.

Overall Grade: B

Kozak did everything asked of him and didn’t look out of place. It’s hard to ask for more than that. He’s dependable defensively, forechecks with vigor, and plays the body as well as anyone on the team.

You’d like to see a little more offensively out of him, but it’s tough when you’re averaging 11 minutes per night. An impressive camp could have him on the fourth line on a regular basis in 2026-27.

A Bigger Role Ahead?

The Sabres are more than likely losing one big name to free agency and will likely need to move one or two forwards out via trade. If a spot opens up, Kozak could fill in nicely in a prolonged role. He has impressed before and it feels like he could become a fixture on the fourth line if needed.

All of that will depend on what the Sabres do in the offseason and what those moves bring back. Still, it is good for the Sabres to know that they have a dependable forward waiting in the wings when they need it.