Malenstyn Inks Two-Year Deal with Sabres, Avoiding Salary Arbitration
In a move that signifies the Buffalo Sabres’ commitment to building a tough and gritty team, forward Beck Malenstyn has signed a two-year, $2.7 million contract with the team. This agreement, reached on Tuesday, effectively eliminates the need for salary arbitration, a process that could have potentially led to a less favorable outcome for both parties. The deal carries an average annual value of $1.35 million, solidifying Malenstyn’s place within the Sabres’ roster for the next two seasons.
The 26-year-old forward, who was a restricted free agent, had filed for salary arbitration on July 5, a common tactic employed by players seeking a fair contract. This move, however, was primarily a procedural step, as both sides were reportedly engaged in negotiations throughout the process. The Sabres, recognizing Malenstyn’s value and potential, were determined to retain his services, and the two-year agreement ultimately proved a mutually beneficial outcome.
Malenstyn, who arrived in Buffalo via a trade from the Washington Capitals in June, made a significant impact during his time with the Capitals. In the 2022-23 season, he reached a career-high 21 points (six goals, 15 assists) in 81 regular-season games. His contributions went beyond scoring, as he led the Capitals in hits with 241 and topped their forwards in blocked shots with 93. Malenstyn’s physicality and dedication to defensive responsibility were evident in his playing style, making him a valuable asset for the Capitals.
The Sabres, who have been actively seeking to bolster their physical presence and defensive capabilities, saw Malenstyn as a perfect fit for their evolving team identity. “This guy is a player who’s direct, hard, finishes checks – and not just finishes checks, but finishes checks hard,” general manager Kevyn Adams remarked on the Sabres website in June, highlighting Malenstyn’s impactful style of play. “There was a real need for that.”
Malenstyn’s commitment to the Sabres adds another dimension to their offensive and defensive strategies. His ability to play a physical, hard-hitting game, coupled with his reliable defensive presence, makes him a valuable asset for the Sabres’ forward lines. His arrival further strengthens their roster and demonstrates the Sabres’ commitment to building a team that can not only score goals but also defend fiercely.
- Beck Malenstyn signs a two-year, $2.7 million contract with the Buffalo Sabres, avoiding salary arbitration.
- The deal has an average annual value of $1.35 million, securing Malenstyn’s spot on the Sabres’ roster for the next two seasons.
- Malenstyn, a 26-year-old forward, was acquired from the Washington Capitals and brings a physical and defensively responsible playing style to the Sabres.
- The Sabres were keen on retaining Malenstyn due to his value and potential impact on their team’s identity.
- General manager Kevyn Adams praised Malenstyn’s direct and hard-hitting style of play, emphasizing the need for such qualities in the team.
- Malenstyn’s commitment adds depth to the Sabres’ offensive and defensive strategies, aligning with their goal of building a tough and gritty team.
Malenstyn’s History and Contributions
Selected by Washington in the fifth round (No. 145) of the 2016 NHL Draft, Malenstyn has gradually carved out a niche for himself in the NHL. He has accumulated 24 points (eight goals, 16 assists) in 105 regular-season games, showcasing his offensive potential. While he has yet to make a significant impact in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, his consistent performance throughout his career has earned him a reputation as a reliable player who brings energy and physicality to the ice.
Malenstyn’s arrival in Buffalo has been welcomed by his former teammate, Nicolas Aube-Kubel, who signed a one-year contract with the Sabres on July 1. “It was a joy playing with him the whole year,” Aube-Kubel said on the Sabres website. “He’s a really hard player to play against. That’s something I learned when I played against him in the American League. Also, while playing with him, it’s not just how many shots he blocks, (it’s) how many little details. He plays safe, he plays the right way. So, it was a pleasure to play with him this year.”
Aube-Kubel’s praise underscores Malenstyn’s impact on the ice. His hard-nosed style, coupled with his attention to detail and commitment to playing a responsible game, makes him a valuable teammate. His ability to contribute in both offensive and defensive aspects of the game makes him a versatile player who can adapt to different situations. The Sabres, seeking to build a team with a strong foundation and a winning mentality, see Malenstyn as a player who can contribute significantly towards their goals.
The Sabres, known for their offensive firepower, have been working to strengthen their defensive core. Malenstyn’s arrival, coupled with the signing of Aube-Kubel, indicates the Sabres’ commitment to establishing a more balanced and well-rounded team. The Sabres’ management team recognizes the importance of a strong defensive foundation in achieving success, and they believe Malenstyn’s defensive skills and physicality will play a crucial role in their future endeavors.
Sabres Address Salary Arbitration Issues
Malenstyn’s contract agreement marks a significant milestone for the Sabres as they address their salary arbitration obligations. Malenstyn was one of two Sabres players scheduled for arbitration hearings, along with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, their 25-year-old goalie. Luukkonen, who had a solid season in 2022-23, holding a 27-22-4 record with a 2.57 goals-against average, .910 save percentage, and five shutouts in 54 games (51 starts), is expected to be a key player for the Sabres moving forward.
The Sabres’ ability to reach agreements with both Malenstyn and Luukkonen before their scheduled arbitration dates demonstrates their commitment to fostering positive relationships with their players. By avoiding the often contentious process of arbitration, the Sabres have created a more harmonious environment within the team, allowing both players to focus on their respective roles and contributions to the team’s success.
The Sabres’ proactive approach to contract negotiations and their ability to reach mutually beneficial agreements showcase their commitment to building a competitive and sustainable team. The signings of Malenstyn and Aube-Kubel, combined with their strategic approach to salary arbitration, highlight the Sabres’ proactive approach to roster construction and their determination to build a team that can compete for a Stanley Cup.
Malenstyn’s Impact on the Sabres Future
Malenstyn’s arrival in Buffalo marks a new chapter in his career. His ability to play a physical, hard-hitting game, coupled with his dedication to defensive responsibility, makes him a valuable asset for the Sabres’ forward lines. He is expected to play a significant role in the Sabres’ offensive and defensive strategies, contributing to their overall success.
The Sabres’ commitment to building a tough and gritty team is evident in their signing of Malenstyn. His physical presence on the ice will not only intimidate opponents but also inspire confidence in his teammates. Malenstyn’s presence is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the Sabres’ lineup, encouraging a more aggressive and physical style of play.
Malenstyn’s two-year contract offers the Sabres a chance to evaluate his contributions and determine his long-term role within the team. If he continues to perform at a high level, the Sabres may choose to offer him a more substantial contract in the future. His commitment to the Sabres and his ability to make an immediate impact highlight his potential for long-term success in Buffalo.
