Devon Levi signs a three-year entry-level contract with the Buffalo Sabres

Northeastern University goaltender Devon Levi has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Buffalo Sabres, marking the next step in his patient approach to development. Levi, who led the country with a .952 save percentage in 2021-22 and won the Mike Richter Award as the best collegiate goaltender, returned for his junior season with the Huskies with the intention of following up on his prior success.

The 21-year-old has certainly proven himself at every level thus far. He led the CCHL in save percentage during his lone season of junior hockey, earning tournament MVP honors in the 2021 World Junior Championship. His decision to spend a third year at U18 AAA with the Lac St. Louis Lions in 2018-19 was another example of his patience and commitment to refining his game.

However, Levi persevered, honing his all-around game, developing off-ice habits, and becoming a leader in the dressing room. He skyrocketed to a .937 save percentage in 16 postseason games and has remained above .930 ever since.

Devon Levi's performance at Northeastern this season, where he led the NCAA once again with a .933 save percentage and ranked third in both saves and shutouts, has garnered attention from NHL teams. The Sabres acquired him in July 2021, along with a first-round pick in the trade that sent Sam Reinhart to Florida.

"The prospect we got, we feel really strongly about," Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams said regarding Levi at the time of the trade.

The organization has since built a relationship with Devon Levi, who attended a Sabres morning skate in Boston last May alongside Adams and was introduced to Buffalo at development camp. The experience left an impression on the young goaltender.

"Kevyn said in our little meeting before dev camp that we're looking to win a Stanley Cup," Levi said. "I think that the organization is on its way. It's really impressive."

With his patient approach and impressive track record, Levi could be a valuable asset to the Buffalo Sabres in the years to come.

Devon Levi's Impressive Season

Devon Levi put together yet another impressive season in 2022-23 while playing for Northeastern University in the Hockey East conference. The 21-year-old goaltender led the NCAA for the second consecutive year with a remarkable 0.933 save percentage and recorded six shutouts, ranking third in the league. Levi's strong performances helped Northeastern to a 17-12-5 record and a spot in the Hockey East tournament. Although they fell short in the tournament, Levi's exceptional play throughout the regular season earned him recognition as the Hockey East Player of the Year.

Devon Levi's impressive performances have not gone unnoticed by NHL scouts, as he was recently signed to a three-year, entry-level contract with the Buffalo Sabres. His patient approach to his development has paid off, and he has become one of the most highly-regarded young goalies in the game.

With Levi joining the Sabres, they have reason to be optimistic about their future. Levi himself noted that the organization is on its way to contending for a Stanley Cup. He will be a key piece of the puzzle as they continue to build towards that goal. The Sabres will undoubtedly look to harness Levi's talent and leadership as they look to become contenders in the years to come.