Sabres' Levi Focused on Mental Game in AHL Stint

Top goaltending prospect Devon Levi discusses path to becoming "elite NHL goalie" after initial struggles in Buffalo

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Buffalo Sabres goalie prospect Devon Levi, who made an immediate jump from college to the NHL, has spent the past two seasons bouncing between the Sabres and their AHL affiliate in Rochester. While it would be easy for the 24-year-old to get frustrated, Levi is choosing to view his current AHL stint as a helpful reset, focusing on the mental side of the game as he works to become an "elite NHL goalie."

Why it matters

Levi was seen as a top goaltending prospect for the Sabres, but his initial NHL struggles led the team to shift focus in net. This story highlights Levi's maturity in handling the setback and his determination to develop the mental aspects of his game to reach his full potential in the NHL.

The details

After enjoying some initial NHL success with a .905 save percentage in seven games, Levi's play with the Sabres over the past two seasons (.892 SV% in 32 outings) led the franchise to shift focus between the pipes. Rather than getting frustrated, Levi is now focused on the mental side of the sport, saying "I know that I have the physical and goaltending ability to play in the NHL" and that the past year or two has been "more of the mental side, being able to understand how to carry a full-season load in pro, manage the ups and down, stay even-keeled throughout."

  • Levi made an immediate jump from Northeastern University to the Buffalo Sabres in 2023.
  • Over the past two seasons, Levi has appeared in 32 games for the Sabres, posting a .892 save percentage.
  • Levi is currently playing for the AHL's Rochester Americans, where he has a .933 save percentage with two shutouts in 12 starts since early January 2026.

The players

Devon Levi

A 24-year-old Canadian goaltender who is a top prospect in the Buffalo Sabres organization.

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

A goaltender in the Sabres organization who is currently ahead of Levi on the depth chart.

Alex Lyon

A goaltender in the Sabres organization who is currently ahead of Levi on the depth chart.

Colten Ellis

A goaltender in the Sabres organization who is currently ahead of Levi on the depth chart.

Kevyn Adams

The former general manager of the Buffalo Sabres who wisely brought in more depth in net to allow Levi to spend an entire season in the AHL.

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What they’re saying

“I know that over time I'll end up where I want to be. And, obviously, being here in Rochester is amazing, and it is where I want to be. And I love it here. But I don't feel rushed anymore. I think I did.”

— Devon Levi, Buffalo Sabres Goalie Prospect (Times Herald)

“I know that I have the physical and goaltending ability to play in the NHL. I think the past year or two has been more of the mental side, being able to understand how to carry a full-season load in pro, manage the ups and down, stay even-keeled throughout.”

— Devon Levi, Buffalo Sabres Goalie Prospect (Times Herald)

What’s next

Levi will play a lot of meaningful hockey during the stretch run of the AHL regular season as the Amerks attempt to clinch a spot in the Calder Cup Playoffs. Doing so would give him a chance to add to his 13 games of postseason experience with Rochester.

The takeaway

Levi's maturity in handling the setback of initial NHL struggles and his determination to develop the mental aspects of his game show he is committed to becoming an "elite NHL goalie." The Sabres' patience in allowing Levi to develop at his own pace in the AHL could pay off if he can carry the Amerks to a deep playoff run.