What Happened
The Buffalo Sabres announced a four-year, $16 million contract extension for defenseman Louis Crevier on Thursday. The deal carries a $4 million annual cap hit starting next NHL season and running through 2030-31. Crevier, 25, was set to become a restricted free agent next summer. Buffalo acquired him in a June trade that sent Bowen Byram to Chicago. The Sabres also recalled Dennis Gilbert and placed Olen Zellweger on injured reserve with a concussion before their season opener at Columbus.
Key Details
- Four-year, $16 million extension; $4 million cap hit through 2030-31.
- Crevier would have been a restricted free agent next summer.
- Acquired from Chicago in June for Bowen Byram.
- Set career highs with 7 goals, 18 assists, 25 points in 78 games last season.
- Olen Zellweger placed on injured reserve in concussion protocol; Dennis Gilbert recalled.
What It Means
Buffalo locks up a 25-year-old right-shot defenseman at a $4 million cap hit through 2030-31, buying out what would have been restricted free agency. Crevier's size and career-high production with Chicago made him a piece of the Bowen Byram trade return. The Zellweger injury adds short-term pressure on the blue line as the Sabres open the season.
What's Next
Crevier's extension begins next NHL season. Zellweger remains in concussion protocol and has not been ruled out for Saturday's home opener. Buffalo continues its season-opening schedule.