The Buffalo Sabres have had the turnaround of all turnarounds since December, highlighted by a 10-game winning streak. As of Jan. 21, the Sabres have a 27-17-5 record with 59 points through 49 games, which helped them sit in the top Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. This has to feel great for the Sabres, who have long been waiting for this team to make it back to the playoffs, something they haven't done since 2011.
On Wednesday, the Sabres decided to reward one of their top young players and scorers.
According to Sportsnet NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Sabres and winger Josh Doan have agreed to terms on a new contract extension. The deal adds seven more years, with a $6.95 million annual salary. Additionally, Doan earns a $7 million signing bonus over the first two years and will get a seven-team no-trade list when eligible.
Some added detail:
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 21, 2026
$7M signing bonus over first two years
When eligible: 7-team no-trade
Sabres reward Josh Doan with lucrative contract extension
Doan was set to hit free agency at the end of this season, so clock was ticking for the Sabres. Doan was one of the main pieces Buffalo received from the Utah Mammoth in return for forward J.J. Peterka. Considering they didn't sign Peterka to a contract extension, it only made sense if they did so with Doan.
This season, Doan has been one of their top offensive players. Through 49 games, Doan has 15 goals and 20 assists to his credit for a toal of 34 points. In fact, Doan is actually producing the same as Peterka is with Utah, who has 16 goals and 16 assists for 32 points. That's great for Buffalo. Sure, Peterka does have a shorter-term deal with Utah, $7.7 million per year over five years, but getting equal production out of a player one year younger than Peterka is a home run for the Sabres.
Whatever may happen by the end of this season, the Sabres can take solace in knowing that Doan, who will be an integral part of their future, is now under contract for the next six seasons.