Who knows. Given the way things have transpired with Sabres trades in recent years I expect Peterka to be a 50 goal scorer in 2-3 years and going deep in the playoffs with Utah. Lol.
That said, they got the kind of players they need. I know it’s not all that meaningful but Kesselring had 89 minutes in penalties last season. The most on the Sabres was Cozens with 62. After that Benson with 60.
He has good size at 6’5, 215. Was positive in plus minus the past two seasons.
Appears we got two players who bring a solid two-way, physical mentality who play with some grit. Which is one of the characteristics missing from the team.
Not the be all but I asked ChatGPT about both:
Michael Kesselring is a tall (6’5”), mobile, right-shot defenseman who blends physicality, puck-moving ability, and improving offensive instincts—an ideal modern two-way NHL blueliner.
Defensive Strengths & Physicality
Strong, physical presence: Known for delivering hits, engaging in board battles, and using his size effectively. He logged 106 hits and 59 blocked shots in 65 games with Arizona in 2023–24 .
Solid one-on-one defender: Coaches praise his defensive fundamentals and ability to consistently win battles .
🚀 Mobility & Skating
Smooth-skating for his size: Scouts say he “moves the puck,” transitions well, and is agile despite being a big body .
Reliably energetic: Regularly logs 18–20 minutes per game, with early-season top-pair minutes and power-play duty in Utah .
🎯 Offense & Puck Skills
Rising offensive upside: In the AHL (Bakersfield) he erupted with 13 goals and 22 points in 49 games, and at one point in the NHL had 14 points and nearly 50 shots through 26 games .
Point-shot threat: Coaches encouraged him to “get your shot through,” and he has responded with a hard release and increased scoring from the point .
Here is what ChatGPT said about Doan:
Mentality & Hockey IQ
Elite mindset: Coaches describe him as singularly focused and mentally tough—emotionally resilient, hardworking, and adaptable .
Leadership qualities: Skated with responsibility from college days to the pros; even as a freshman he had captain’s qualities .
Summary
Type of player
Power-scoring winger with strong puck instincts
Key strengths
Fast, physical forechecking; quick release; high response to adversity
Potential role
Middle-6 winger who contributes energy, goals, and grit nightly
Mental makeup
Dedicated, focused, and coachable—a true competitor.
In short, Josh Doan plays with a blend of physicality, grit, and scoring savvy—a modern NHL winger who works hard on all three zones. With his relentless forecheck, willingness to crash the net, and mental toughness, he’s quickly built a reliable, middle-six role.