Sabres Re-Sign Luukkonen to a Five-Year/ $23.75 million extension

The Buffalo Sabres and goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen have agreed on a five-year contract extension worth $23.75 million, making him a prominent piece of the team's future. He had a breakout season in 2023-24 and looks to lead Buffalo to a playoff appearance this season.

Sabres lock up starter Luukkonen

The 6-foot-6 and 215-pound goaltender from Espoo, Finland had a career year during the 2023-24 season. Drafted by Buffalo in the second round (54th overall) in the 2017 NHL Draft, he has made steady progress during his development into a solid goaltender. His movement is much better between the pipes and he is more patient, allowing the shooter to make the first move. His size is a factor as he does not give the opposition much net to shoot at, instead using his agility to slide in the crease to make saves.

Last season, he played the most games he has played in the NHL. He posted a record of 27-22-4, with a 2.57 goals=against-average, a .910 save percentage, and five shutouts. He set career-highs in saves (1,388), shots against (1,470), minutes (3,081), and penalty minutes (8). His career numbers include a 457-41-10 record, a 2.98 GAA, a .904 save percentage, and five shutouts.

Luukkonen weill go into the 2024-25 season as the starter. Devon Levi, Buffalo's younger netminder, has struggled between the pipe and has yet to find his game. Last season, Levi posted a record of 10-8-2, with a 3.10 GAA, and an .899 save percentage. He is still young and developing, but could see 25 games this season.

With his progress and development included five stints with the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League (AHL) and a short stint with the Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL. These stops helped better him as a goaltender, put him in situations to be successful, and make him ready for a full-time role between the pipes.

While he is still young, Luukkonen showed glimpses of greatness last season and the capability to dig out some wins with timely saves. This deal is a good one for both sides as Luukkonen continues to shine for the Sabres.