The 2023-24 season was another disappointing one for the Buffalo Sabres. In a year when they were supposed to take a big step forward, they struggled and extended their postseason drought to 13 years.

While the Sabres had another frustrating season, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen was a bright spot for them. The 25-year-old netminder broke out and became the club's definite No. 1 starter because of it. In 54 appearances, he had a 27-22-4 record, a 2.57 GAA, a .910 SV%, and five shutouts. 

Luukkonen is a restricted free agent this offseason and has naturally set himself up for a raise from his $837,500 salary. Due to his excellent play, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman believes the Sabres are working on an extension for UPL.

Re-signing Luukkonen should be a no-brainer for the Sabres, as he was their top goalie by a country mile this season. Along with that, he has expressed that he is open to the prospect of signing a long-term extension in Buffalo. 

We will need to wait and see if the Sabres end up getting Luukkonen signed to a new contract shortly. Given how well he played this season, locking him up early would be quite good for the Sabres. 

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