The Buffalo Sabres goalie tandem could become the league’s best in the future.
The Buffalo Sabres are entering next season with a good situation between the pipes. Last season’s breakout star, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, has been re-signed and will look to build off his big year. Promising youngster Devon Levi will look to follow in UPL’s footsteps and take a notable step forward in his development. The Sabres also added veteran James Reimer, so the Sabres are set in goal.
However, at 36 years old, Reimer will not be a long-term addition to the Sabres’ roster. Instead, he will provide the Sabres with an experienced backup option if they feel Levi would benefit from more time in the AHL. He also will come in handy if injuries arise during the season.
Yet, a Luukkonen-Levi tandem is expected to be the Sabres’ long-term plan between the pipes. It is understandable, as Luukkonen took a significant step forward last season, while Levi is viewed as one of the top young goalies in the sport.
If Luukkonen improves upon his 2023-24 season and Levi hits his full potential, the Sabres could soon take over the Boston Bruins’ previous spot and form the NHL’s top goalie tandem. The Bruins notably broke up their goalie tandem this summer when they traded former Sabre Linus Ullmark to the Ottawa Senators.
Having two high-impact goalies would be significant for the Sabres, as it would make them a far more challenging team to beat. There is no question that Luukkonen and Levi are trending in that direction, and it will be very intriguing to see what kind of seasons they put together for Buffalo in 2024-25 from here.