Gerbe leaving BC, signs with Sabres

NATHAN GERBE Three-year deal

Last year, it took goaltender Cory Schneider well into the offseason to decide that he wanted to forgo his senior season at Boston College to turn professional. It took Nathan Gerbe a far shorter period.

Yesterday, the dynamic 20-year-old forward elected to leave the school to sign a three-year contract with the Buffalo Sabres.

Gerbe, who was a Hobey Baker finalist, a first-team All-American, and led the country in scoring with 68 points in 43 games, was selected in the fifth round (No. 145 overall) in the 2005 draft. He was named the outstanding player in the NCAA Frozen Four, collecting 8 points in two games to help the Eagles win the national championship.

"We're very excited for Nathan and his decision to pursue his hockey career with the Buffalo Sabres," said BC coach Jerry York. "He has had a tremendous influence on our university and, in particular, our team. We wish him the very best of luck."

According to the Associated Press, Gerbe would make the NHL rookie maximum salary of $850,000 per season if he plays with the Sabres for the duration of the contract.

In his three years at the school, Gerbe played 123 games, and had 133 points. He leaves BC tied with Kevin Stevens and John Cunniff for 18th place on the school's all-time goals list with 71. He ranks 33d on the points list.

BC wasn't the only Hockey East school with news. Boston University coach Jack Parker announced that goaltender Brett Bennett will not be back in a Terrier uniform in 2008-09. Bennett played in 31 games last season, 29 of them starts. He had an .888 save percentage and 2.63 goals-against average.

"Our staff has decided that we'll move in a different direction in regards to our goaltending," said Parker. "We wish Brett the best in his future endeavors."