BY: PATRICK KOSTER
On Monday afternoon, the Buffalo Sabres announced they have signed center Steven Fogarty to a one-year-deal worth $700,000.
The 27-year-old has played a total of 18 NHL games in his career, including one postseason appearance with the New York Rangers this year. He has 0 NHL points, but raked in 37 points (13 goals, 24 assists) in 54 games last season with the New York Rangers’ AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolfpack.
Fogarty doesn’t add anything special to the Sabres, but his arrival adds depth and options for the organization. The former Wolfpack captain will most likely end up being a top line forward on the Rochester Americans. But, in a pinch, it’s nice to know the Sabres have a guy with some pro
experience to call up.
He will play a more experienced role with the Amerks, and will help with the development of younger players.
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of this signing is that Fogarty could fill a hole at center if center Rasmus Asplund were to be called up more frequently this coming season.
Asplund played 29 games last season with the Sabres, scoring one goal and two assists during his brief stint at the NHL level. He could be suiting up for the Sabres more often now that the Americans have a steady, older center in Fogarty to rely on.
Unfortunately, this is still a bit of speculation for now. With talks of Dylan Cozens possibly making his pro debut this season, it would make it more difficult to fit Asplund into the Sabres’ ranks.
It’s worth noting that last season was Asplund’s first time playing at the pro level. At just 22 years old, he still has time to develop and establish a more permanent role in the NHL, regardless of where he or Fogarty end up this season.
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