Forty-seven games into the 2017-18 NHL season, Buffalo Sabres newcomer Victor Antipin has been absent for nearly half of the season.
The 25-year-old Russian defenseman signed with Buffalo back in May and was pretty highly-touted upon his signing. It was an exciting move, and Sabres GM Jason Botterill called Antipin “a well-rounded defenseman,” noting his mobility and puck-moving skills as two key assets of his on-ice play.
He signed with Buffalo after an impressive showing at the World Championships, inking a one-year entry-level contract. The length of the contract was limited due to his age, per the league’s collective bargaining agreement.