The Buffalo Sabres have dipped into college free agency once again, this time signing Dawson DiPietro out of Western Michigan University. The college forward was at Sabres development camp last summer and has some familiarity with the organization, but will now join the Sabres on a one-year entry-level contract. GM Jason Botterill released a short statement on his newest forward:
Dawson was excellent at our development camp last summer, where he was able to showcase his speed and skill. His high-energy, up-tempo style was an important asset for Western Michigan, and we’re excited to add his skillset to our group.
If there’s one thing you notice as soon as you watch DiPietro, it’s speed. The 5’11” forward skates low to the ice and has the ability to tear by defenders in space, which helped him record 12 goals and 29 points this season for the Broncos. The 24-year old will immediately become a candidate for a fourth line role on the Sabres, though they may want to start him in the minor leagues to get a taste of professional hockey.
DiPietro joins Brandon Biro as additions the Sabres have made out of the college ranks this spring, something Botterill obviously learned during his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
I smell a 15 year contract coming up….