Sabres, Girgensons Reach Three-Year Contract
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BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Sabres have signed one of their two first round draft picks. Latvian forward Zemgus Girgensons has decided to go pro instead of heading to Vermont.
The Sabres announced Friday a three-year entry level contract for the 14th overall choice in this year's draft. He'll likely start in Rochester, but Sabres General Manager Darcy Regier sees a bright future in the 18-year-old.
"I think that he can certainly play center at the pro level. One of the things that you have the flexibility of doing and Lindy has the experience is giving a player easier entry you can move them from wing to center," said Regier.
The forward committed to play collegiately at Vermont, but chose to head straight to the Sabres after participating in the team's development camp this week.
He spent the past two years with the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the United States Hockey League, where last season he led the team with 24 goals and 55 points.
"I am trying to look for these next to months before the season and get as many workouts as I can. I want to get bigger, stronger, faster and try to get pro," said Girgensons.
The Sabres are still working to sign their other first round pick, center Mikhail Grigorenko.