Johan Larsson, Sabres Agree to New Contract: Latest Details and Reaction

The Buffalo Sabres announced that they signed Johan Larsson to a one-year contract extension Friday, which will allow the left winger to avoid restricted free agency in the summer. 

According to TSN's Bob McKenzie, Larsson will earn an average annual salary of $950,000. 

This past season was the first time that Larsson received regular playing time in the NHL, appearing in 74 games. In the previous three years, he had appeared in just 68 games combined. 

He recorded 10 goals and seven assists as a bottom-six forward, but he did have a knack for scoring at big times, as five of his 10 goals in 2015-16 were game-winners. Only rookie phenom Jack Eichel had as many on the team.

The NHL shared a replay of Larsson's game-winner against the Detroit Red Wings in December:

Larsson also brings a mean streak to the ice, as he isn't afraid to throw his 5'11", 200-pound frame around and can spark the team with his physical play on the third or fourth line.

At 23 years old, Larsson could still develop into a regularly contributing offensive forward. If he lands in the right situations and gains familiarity on a lower line in Buffalo, he could develop into a solid role player for the Sabres as they try to build their team into a contender in the Eastern Conference.

Stats courtesy of Hockey-Reference.com.