May 3, 2006
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Stafford Signs With Buffalo
CHN Staff Report
GRAND FORKS, N.D. — North Dakota junior Drew Stafford became the third Fighting Sioux to forgo his remaining eligibility to sign a pro contract, inking a three-year deal with the Buffalo Sabres.
Stafford, who currently is in Riga, Lativa, playing at the World Championships, was drafted in the first round by the Sabres in 2004.
The Grand Forks Herald reports that Stafford received the "best contract possible," which under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement means a $984,200 per year maximum, and a 30 percent signing bonus.
Stafford joins sophomore Travis Zajac and junior Matt Smaby as Sioux leaving early.
Stafford led North Dakota with 24 goals and 48 points in 42 games this season.
