The Buffalo Sabres are likely to make Jack Eichel the centrepiece of their future. Now they have his linemate.
The Sabres on Wednesday signed free-agent forward Evan Rodrigues to a two-year, entry-level contract. Rodrigues played alongside Eichel at Boston University and finished second to the Hobey Baker Award winner in NCAA scoring.
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A Toronto native, Rodrigues was considered one of the top college free agents available.
"Evan is a very talented young player who has displayed exceptional growth during his four years at BU," Sabres GM Tim Murray said. "We look forward to adding another talented piece to our group."
Agent Brian Bartlett said in a phone interview that Rodrigues had multiple offers from NHL teams.
The deal Rodrigues has with the Sabres includes the maximum signing bonus and American Hockey League salary allowable, Bartlett said.
Rodrigues had 21 goals and 40 assists in 41 games for the Terriers, who reached the national title game before losing to Providence.
Bartlett said the Sabres told him there would be roster spots open for competition in training camp but did not make any promises about Rodrigues starting in the NHL.
Eichel is expected to be Buffalo’s pick second overall behind Connor McDavid first to the Edmonton Oilers.
