The Buffalo Sabres are making a strong push for the Atlantic Division title, and more importantly, they’re on the verge of ending their playoff drought. However, not everything is smooth sailing for the organization. Reports indicate that the Sabres are actively looking to trade goalie Devon Levi, following a less-than-stellar start to his professional career.
According to insider David Pagnotta, “The Buffalo Sabres were shopping goalie Devon Levi and are expected to keep those talks going this summer.”
Levi joined the Sabres in a trade with the Florida Panthers before the 2022 NHL Draft. The deal sent him and a first-round pick to Buffalo in exchange for Sam Reinhart, a crucial player in Florida's Stanley Cup victories. Levi came with high expectations, having been one of college hockey’s standout goalies.
His performance for Team Canada in the 2021 World Juniors was nothing short of heroic, leading them to a silver medal. Levi also claimed the Mike Richter Award as the top NCAA goaltender during the 2021-22 season with the Northeastern Huskies. His college career was capped with a Beanpot victory, boasting a 2.24 goals-against average in 34 starts.
Upon joining the Sabres, Levi found himself splitting time between the AHL's Rochester Americans and the NHL team. Unfortunately, his performance hasn’t quite lived up to the hype at either level.
In 39 NHL starts, he’s recorded a .894 save percentage and a 3.29 goals-against average. However, his numbers with the Americans are more promising, with a 2.47 GAA and a .916 save percentage.
For teams with a keen eye for talent development, Levi could be a worthwhile investment. At just 24, he still has the potential to evolve into a reliable NHL starter. The Sabres, however, will need to navigate a complex negotiation process this summer, ensuring they don’t part with him without fair compensation.