NHL News: Sabres sign rising goalie star, former Panthers prospect to $1.6M deal in major roster move

In a move that reinforces their long-term goaltending structure, the Buffalo Sabres have officially signed former Florida Panthers prospect Devon Levi to a two-year, $1.625 million contract, solidifying one of their final roster decisions ahead of the upcoming NHL season.

The 23-year-old netminder, who entered the offseason as a restricted free agent, spent most of last season developing in the AHL with Rochester. Despite limited success at the NHL level, the Sabres clearly see untapped potential in Levi, who is expected to compete for backup or depth minutes in the 2024–25 campaign.

With this signing, Buffalo wraps up negotiations with its final unsigned RFA, closing the chapter on what has been a quiet but calculated offseason for the front office.

AHL success and NHL challenges

Levi impressed in the AHL last season, posting a 25-13-4 record with a strong 2.20 goals-against average and a .919 save percentage across 42 games. His seven shutouts led the league, underscoring his ability to deliver high-level performances in crucial moments.

However, his transition to the NHL proved more difficult. In nine appearances with the Sabres, Levi registered a 2-7-0 record, a 4.12 GAA, and an .872 save percentage. While those numbers reflect growing pains, Buffalo remains committed to his development trajectory.

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Background and acquisition

Originally selected by the Panthers in the seventh round (No. 212) of the 2020 NHL Draft, Levi joined the Sabres via the trade that sent Sam Reinhart to Florida on July 24, 2021. Since making his NHL debut, Levi has accumulated a 17-17-2 career record, with a 3.29 GAA and an .894 save percentage across 39 games — all with Buffalo.