It may be difficult at times for some players to be called up to the Sabres and then be sent down back and forth throughout their first few seasons. It does seem though that Devon Levi has embraced his role and his time with the Rochester Americans.
Levi has seen action for Buffalo this season playing in nine games in the 2024/2025 campaign. He is 2-7 on the year and has .872 save percentage. He has been sent to the Rochester Americans several times splitting his time between both Rochester and Buffalo.
Despite the up and down part of the season, it does seem that Levi has embraced his role for the Americans. He has gone 16-6-4 for Rochester with a save percentage of .927. The Sabres will probably have questions moving forward when it comes what they will do between the pipes.
If Levi can stay healthy he may become a big part of their plans moving forward. His attitude and performance in Rochester could be the boost that he'll need to become a starter in the NHL.
Levi has not played for the Sabres since January 20th against the Kraken.
It seems he does not seem to be bothered by that. Speaking with Mathew Fairburn of the Athletic, he talked of his time in Rochester. "I love every moment when I’m at the rink in Rochester. I’m grateful that I got brought here in my development, my career, even my life outside the game. I enjoy being here. I feel like I’m learning a lot as a person, as a goalie. This is where I need to be right now.”
This season, the 23-year-old has had seven shutouts for Rochester. It may be what Lindy Ruff, and company will be looking at this offseason. Ukko Pekka-Luukkonen has underperformed for the Sabres this season and James Reimer will be a free agent next season.
If he continues to play well, he may be a key to the Sabres offseason plays as either a starter who splits time with a new goalie or viable backup. He currently has 941 saves on the year for Rochester.
On October 12th, Levi had 23 saves and a percantage of .920 in a 5-2 win against the defending Stanley Cup champion, Florida Panthers. Buffalo is currently fighting to get over .500 by the end of the season. The win led by Levi may be vital to them getting there.
More steady performance in Rochester like the one against Florida could lead to Levi having an even bigger role for the Sabres next year.