One of the top goaltending prospects has experienced some early trials and tribulations, but still has time to develop into a top-tier goaltender.
Buffalo Sabres netminder Devon Levi came out of Northeastern University as the next starting goaltender for the struggling franchise, and was thrown into the No. 1 role after his college career ended last season.
However, things have not panned out for the Quebec native, especially at the beginning of this season. He struggled to find consistency over the first couple of months, and was eventually sent down to the American Hockey League’s Rochester Americans.
The demotion has allowed Levi the opportunity to hone his game, and adjust to the life of being a professional hockey player, without the pressures of delivering at the NHL level.
On Thursday’s edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Lance Lysowski of The Buffalo News joins Colby Cohen and Tyler Yaremchuk discuss why the future is still bright for the Sabres and their young netminder.
Colby Cohen: I thought the plan, by putting him in the NHL right away, I didn’t think that was a smart decision. How is the organization feeling about his progression in his first full season of pro, and do they still look at him as the “savior” to the net, long-term?
Lance Lysowski: He’s performed at a high level in big stages, which really tempted this team to try and push him further…and he hit a wall. He’s been exceptional in Rochester, it’s where he needs to be. You need to be patient with goaltending prospects. Ukko-Pekka Luukonen is a classic example…it takes time, you have to stick with guys. There’s gonna be ups, there’s gonna be downs, and Levi has gone through those this season.
You can watch the full segment, and the entire episode here…
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