Connolly signs extension with Sabres

Tim Connolly is staying put after the Buffalo Sabres forward signed a new two-year contract Wednesday.

The deal is worth $4.5 million per season.

"The hope was to stay here," Connolly said. "This was the No. 1 option. It's what I wanted. We have a great bunch of guys, and have a chance to win here for years to come."

Connolly, 27, began his NHL career with the New York Islanders after being selected in the first round (eighth overall) of the 1999 NHL draft. He spent two seasons with the Islanders before being traded to the Sabres for Michael Peca in 2001.

Connolly, who has 11 goals and 15 assists this season, was set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

"From our side — ownership, management and the coaching staff — this is a big thing for us and an important step in the progress of this hockey club and the future of this hockey club," Sabres general manager Darcy Regier said.

"Coming into the trade deadline, this was the most important thing we could accomplish."

Regier hopes Connolly will help the Sabres make a push for the playoffs down the regular season stretch.

Entering Wednesday night's game against Montreal, Buffalo sits in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, three points behind Pittsburgh, who currently holds the eighth and final playoff spot.

"For us, it's better than a trade," Regier said. "In order to keep Tim and not give up any assets, I think it's a terrific day."