Update: The Sabres have made the signing official.
The Buffalo Sabres today announced the team has signed free agent forward Evan Rodrigues to a two-year, entry-level contract.
Rodrigues (5’11”, 176 lbs., 7/28/93) recently finished his senior season at Boston University, recording 61 points (21+40) while helping the Terriers advance to the championship game of the 2015 NCAA Tournament. An assistant captain of the 2014-15 Terriers squad, he ranked second in the nation in assists per game (0.98) and in total points (61). His four points (3+1) in two games played in this year’s NCAA Tournament earned him Most Outstanding Player of Northeast Regional and All-Regional Team honors in the NCAA Tournament.
“Evan is a very talented young player who has displayed exceptional growth during his four years at BU,” said Buffalo Sabres General Manager Tim Murray. “We look forward to adding another talented piece to our group.”
In his four seasons at Boston University, Rodrigues amassed 121 points (42+79) in 146 games played and registered a 0.83 points-per-game average. He was also named a Hockey East Second Team All-Star in his sophomore and senior seasons.
Prior to his collegiate career, the Etobicoke, Ontario native played two seasons with the Georgetown Raiders of the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL).
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The Sabres will sign undrafted free agent Evan Rodrigues from Boston University according to WEEI. It is a two-year deal according to TSN’s Bob McKenzie.
The 5-foot-11 senior winger spent a majority of his time on Jack Eichel’s wing, and took advantage of the opportunity. He had by far his best season statistically, scoring 21 goals and 40 assists in 41 games. He nearly doubled his previous career high, and nearly tripled his production from the season before.
Rodrigues was second in NCAA Divison I scoring, behind only Eichel. He served as an alternate captain with the Terriers this season.
The Sabres may be very interested in what Rodrigues could bring to the table, or the signing could be to earn marks with Eichel. Rodrigues will likely start the season with the Rochester Americans.
The Sabres were also reportedly interested in BU goalie Matt O’Connor, but are reportedly out of that race according to McKenzie. He has visits scheduled with Edmonton, Vancouver and the Rangers over the next two weeks.