Earlier this offseason, the Buffalo Sabres signed veteran goaltender James Reimer to a one-year, $1 million contract. While this was one of the quieter moves from the Sabres this summer, it has the potential to be a good one for Buffalo.
View the original article to see embedded media.
Reimer, 36, simply provides the Sabres with more depth between the pipes. At a minimum, he will give the Sabres an experienced third-string goalie to have around when injuries inevitably arise during the season. However, he also provides them a more-than-serviceable option for the backup role if youngster Devon Levi ends up needing a bit more time at the AHL level with the Rochester Americans.
Reimer showed this past season with the Detroit Red Wings that he can still work quite well in a backup role. In 25 games with the Original Six club, he had an 11-8-2 record, a .904 save percentage (SV%), and a 3.11 goals-against average (GAA). In addition, he has sported a .900 SV% or better in 13 out of his 14 NHL seasons. Thus, he has been quite consistent throughout his career.
© Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Besides still being useful at this point in his career, Reimer should also be a good mentor to rising stars Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Levi. As noted above, he has carved himself a lengthy career in the NHL, so he could be good to have around as the two youngsters continue to develop their games.
At a $1 million cap hit, Reimer has the potential to be an excellent low-risk signing for the Sabres. It will be fun to see what kind of season he puts together for Buffalo from here.
Former Sabres Goalie Still Looking for New Home
Sabres Should Make Big Push for Blues Forward
Sabres Rising Star Is Big Breakout Candidate
Former Sabres Defender Signs With New Team
Former Sabres Defender Still Looking for New Home
Sabres Should Take Big Chance on Ex-Rangers Forward
Ex-Sabres Defender Discussing Extension With Maple Leafs
Sabres Star Is Big Bounce-Back Candidate
