On Saturday, the Chicago Blackhawks’ plans for Bowen Byram to return to Buffalo alongside the team were disrupted because he had to attend to a family matter. However, former Sabres winger Jordan Greenway received a warm reception from the packed KeyBank Center crowd.
Throughout the first week of the NHL season, several former Sabres have made notable contributions with their new teams: Alex Tuch scored twice in his debut for the Washington Capitals, and JJ Peterka netted two goals for the Boston Bruins. The latest ex-Sabre to make an impact is goaltender Devon Levi.
Levi, 24, was traded from the Edmonton Oilers during the offseason in exchange for a draft pick. He began the season as backup to Tristan Jarry, but after Edmonton’s surprising loss to Vancouver in the opener, head coach Mike Babcock chose Levi to start in the rematch. Levi allowed seven goals on 22 shots in a 9-7 victory but then performed much better in his second start against Seattle, stopping 19 shots in a 3-1 win. This win may have temporarily secured Levi the starting goalie position until veteran Frederik Andersen is healthy enough to compete for the spot.
While Tuch and Peterka did not score on Saturday, former Sabre Connor Clifton contributed with an assist in the Minnesota Wild’s 4-1 victory over Boston.
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Fan Take: These stories highlight how the NHL season is already shaping up to be exciting, especially as former Sabres find their footing in new teams. It underscores the depth of talent and the ongoing storylines that make hockey fans eager to watch every game, eager to see which players will shine and how their moves impact the league’s narrative.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
