Sabres Sign Drew Stafford to Four-Year Extension

The Buffalo Sabres announced on Friday that they have signed right wing Drew Stafford to a four-year contract extension worth $16 million. The deal averages out to $4 million per season. He would have been a restricted free agent on July 1. In 62 games this past season, Stafford had 31 goals and 21 assists for 52 points. He missed 20 games throughout the season because of injuries. In 317 career NHL games, all with the Sabres, he has 94 goals and 102 assists for 196 points. Not a bad signing for the Sabres, as Stafford is emerging as one of the top forwards on the team. He has good size, can play a physical game, and can score goals despite being a bit inconsistent in his offensive game from time to time. With his best years still ahead of him, look for Stafford's skills to increase over the next four years.