The Buffalo Sabres re-build continues as they have announced the trading of goaltender Michal Neuvirth to the New York Islanders, in exchange for Chad Johnson and a conditional 3rd round pick in 2016.
Neuvirth to Isles for Johnson and 3rd.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) March 2, 2015
Neuvirth, 26, is on the final year of his two year contract, signed with the Washington Capitals before he was traded to the Sabres along with Rostislav Klesla for Jaroslav Halak and a 3rd-round pick. Neuvirth is making $2.6 million until the end of this season, where he’ll become an unrestricted free agent.
Drafted in the 2nd round, 34th overall, by the Washington Capitals in 2006, the Czech Republic native was in contention for the Capitals’ starting position, as he battled for the spot against the other goaltender, Braden Holtby. Unfortunately for him, Neuvirth battled some nagging leg injuries and more often than not, split duties between the Capitals and their AHL affiliate, Hershey Bears. After 6 seasons in Washington, Neuvirth was traded to the Sabres. Found in a similar spot as Washington, Neuvirth was in a battle for starts against Jhonas Enroth. In 23 starts this season, Neuvirth has posted a 6-16-3 record, recording a .918 save percentage and a 2.95 goals against. While the stats do not look promising, nor does his record, it’s can be more of a reflection on how the team has played this season. Buffalo is dead last in the Eastern Conference, and the NHL as well.
At 26 years of age, Neuvirth still has some untapped potential. He is a butterfly-style goalie that stays true to its original form. Squaring off against shooters, he is fully composed at all times and never seems to get rattled by much. His leg injuries have set him back but he can still hold down the fort on a better team.
Johnson signed a two-year deal with the Islanders last summer,. He has struggled this year with an 8-8-1 record and .889 save percentage.
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