According to Minnesota Wild reporter, Michael Russo, the Sabres are likely signing goalie Chad Johnson come July 1st.
Johnson was originally acquired, along with a 3rd round pick, by the Sabres during the 2014-2015 season for Michal Neuvirth but he did not play a game in a Sabres uniform until the 2015-2016 season. Johnson had a 2.36 GAA, .910 SV%, and a 22-16-4 record with one shutout during his lone campaign in blue and gold. Johnson played well in his 45 games here in Buffalo, becoming a fan favorite for his electrifying saves. His 2.36 GAA is second in franchise history only to Dominik Hasek according to @SabresStats.
Now after an up and down season with the Calgary Flames, it looks like Johnson will return to the Sabres as a backup. Johnson will add his veteran presence to the locker room and will be a solid backup to lean on.
With Cal Petersen deciding to sign with Los Angeles, the Sabres plan of having Ullmark backing up in Buffalo fell through. Johnson will fill the gap for a season before Ullmark finally comes to the Sabres full time. Although it would have been good to get Ullmark on the team this season, another year of development in Rochester should help.
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