BUFFALO, N.Y. - Sabres general manager Darcy Regier announced the team has signed 2011 first round draft pick Joel Armia to a three-year entry level contract.
"We've been very impressed by Joel's ability to make an impact in a professional league at such a young age," said Regier in a statement released by the team. "His combination of size, skill and potential makes us hopeful that he will be a valuable asset to our organization for a number of years."
Armia was selected by Buffalo with the 16th overall pick in last years draft. The Finnish forward played in the Finnish elite league last season, scoring 18 goals and 20 assists in 54 games. The 19-year-old also represented Finland in the World Junior Championships, scoring five goals and two assists in the in the 2012 tournament.
Reports say Armia is expected to spend another season in Finland before joining the Sabres.
The 2012 NHL draft is set for this coming Friday and Saturday. Buffalo has four of the top 44 picks in the draft with two picks in both the first round (12 and 21) and the second round (42 and 44).