Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen took a huge step forward for the Buffalo Sabres this year. While they didn't make the postseason, Luukkonen was a huge part of Buffalo being in the playoff race heading down the stretch. He will be due for a contract extension and according to reports, it looks like the team is trying to get an extension done with the Finnish goaltender.
Elliotte Friedman via 32 Thoughts:
— The Sabre Report (@TheSabreReport) April 20, 2024
“I’m trying to determine if the Lindy Ruff talk is real or fantasy.
I also believe they are working on extending Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.” pic.twitter.com/jJdqaSn158
While this is great to hear, Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams needs to be cautious when it comes to giving Luukkonen a contract extension. Adams does not have a good track record of handing out contracts, whether they're on his team or bringing players to Buffalo.
In regards to contracts on the Sabres, Dylan Cozens is a great example. After getting a contract extension last season, Cozens took a step back this year as he didn't eclipse 20 goals after scoring 31 in 2022/2023. Two more examples are Mattias Samuelsson and Tage Thompson. One can't seem to stay healthy and the other one finished strong but didn't have the best season.
Going back to Luukkonen, he performed very well this season. He put up good numbers and put together a complete season for the first time in his career. With that being said, Adams still needs to proceed with caution.
Sabres fans have seen this movie before with the team signing a player to an extension and it backfires. I'm not saying Ukko doesn't deserve a payday, it's more of Kevyn not going overboard. I do hope Buffalo extends Luukkonen but I also hope it's not a bad term and length.
Like I said earlier, UPL deserves a new contract. His play this season earned one but hopefully, it's nothing too crazy. I think a 3-5 year deal would be perfect. We'll see what happens but at the right price and length, Buffalo fans should be thrilled if Luukkonen gets an extension.