The Buffalo Sabres signed 22-year-old forward Noah Ostlund to an eight-year, $52.8 million contract, the team announced Monday. The deal reflects confidence in Ostlund, who had 11 goals and 27 points in 60 games as a rookie, plus a goal and assist in three playoff games.

The Sabres expect Ostlund to fill a top-two line role this season. The Sweden native was picked 16th in the 2022 draft and is entering the final year of his rookie contract. He is now a key part of Buffalo's 27-and-younger core, including Josh Doan, Zach Benson, Josh Norris, Rasmus Dahlin, Mattias Samuelsson, and Owen Power—all under contract through at least 2030.

Buffalo snapped a 14-season playoff drought last season and reached the second round for the first time since 2007 before losing to Montreal. The deal was completed before the NHL's new CBA takes effect Wednesday, limiting re-signings to seven-year maximum deals.