Sabres’ Mattias Samuelsson reaches rare milestone with 10th goal and 90 hits this season

Sabres defenseman Mattias Samuelsson is now the only NHL blueliner with 10+ goals and 90+ hits this season. Samuelsson has definitely been known for his shutdown ability and defensive smarts, but he added a different game to his arsenal in 2025-26 in producing for his team offensively while being consistent, as well. He has combined that physicality with some scoring to make him one of the most complete players on the Buffalo roster.With steady progress and confidence, Samuelsson has blossomed into a key two-way option for the Sabres. It is a feat most blueliners in the modern-day NHL struggle to do: a defenseman who plays physically and scores at least 10 goals. It underscores just how much of an asset he has become for Buffalo both offensively and defensively, bringing needed stability and surprising output.Samuelsson has mostly been considered a stay-at-home type defender during his early career, needing to limit the opposition and hold down the defensive zone. He has, however, redefined the narrative of that reputation this season. The 10th goal of the season sends him to new heights in both scoring and overall production. This offensive growth has been one of the most positive things for the Sabres this year.Samuelsson has gradually become more involved in the attack as he has grown more confident with the puck and more willing to join the rush. His shot from the blue line has been much improved, and his instincts in the offensive zone have sharpened as well. Instead of just shoveling the puck to forwards, he's started seizing his own chances. It made him a more versatile player and a more challenging player for other teams to face.Nevertheless, Samuelsson has not strayed from the hard-nosed, fearless brand of hockey that got him noticed in the first place, even with his recent offensive explosion. To put together a season with over 90 hits means he is still one of the more rugged, reliable defencemen in the NHL. Part of what makes him valuable, still, is his ability to deliver heavy checks, win his battles along the boards, and stick up for his teammates.And hitting double-digit goals in the process is the portion that truly makes this milestone something special, when you combine the physical edge. A lot of defensemen are good in one or the other, but there are not many that do both at such a high level. For Buffalo, the versatility of Samuelsson has given them consistency and a physical presence on a nightly basis. His combination of grit and skill has been both a bedrock of the Sabres' blue line and part of the reason they are making strides through a competitive season.