Sabres agree to terms with C Roy

Jul 27, 2007 - 2:57 PM BUFFALO, New York (Ticker) - The Buffalo Sabres on Friday avoided salary arbitration by agreeing to terms on a six-year deal with restricted free agent center Derek Roy.

Terms were not disclosed, but TSN of Canada reported on its web site that the deal was worth $24 million. He was making $627,000 last season.

Roy, 24, was fifth on the Sabres in scoring last season, posting career highs in points (63), goals (21) and assists (42) in 75 games. He also was an integral part of the Sabres' push to the Eastern Conference final with two goals and five assists in the postseason.

"Derek is a solid young player who will only continue to improve," Buffalo general manager Darcy Regier said. "He will play an increased role for our club, and we look forward to having such a quality player in our organization for many years to come."

Roy, who has 48 goals and 80 assists in his career, was the Sabres' second round selection - 32nd overall - in the 2001 draft.