The Buffalo Sabres on Thursday locked up their last restricted free agent, signing goalie Devon Levi to a two-year, $1.625 million contract.
Levi, 23, just enjoyed a terrific season with the Rochester Americans, registering a 25-13-4 record with a 2.20 goals-against average, a .919 save percentage and a league-best seven shutouts in 42 games. He posted a 5-3 mark in the Calder Cup Playoffs.
The Sabres’ top goalie prospect also played nine games for Buffalo last season, compiling a 2-7-0 record with a 4.12 goals-against average and an .872 save percentage.
Levi, who cracked Buffalo’s opening-night roster in each of his first two full seasons, could begin the upcoming campaign in the AHL. The Sabres recently signed veteran goalie Alex Lyon to provide competition and push Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who struggled last season.
Lyon’s arrival can give Levi more development time. He’s waiver exempt in the upcoming season or until he plays 21 more NHL games, according to Puckpedia.com.
In 68 career games with the Amerks, Levi has compiled a 41-19-10 record with a 2.28 goals-against average, a .922 save percentage and seven shutouts.
In 39 contests with the Sabres over parts of three seasons, he has registered a 17-17-2 mark with a 3.29 goals-against average and an .894 save percentage.