Buffalo Sabres Sign UMass Lowell Star C.J. Smith

UMass Lowell junior forward C.J. Smith has signed an entry-level NHL contract with the Buffalo Sabres, two sources confirmed to SB Nation.

The Des Moines, Iowa native scored 23 goals and 28 assists in 41 games this season for the River Hawks. An undrafted free agent out of the USHL, Smith finishes his collegiate career with 56 goals and 69 assists in 120 games.

Smith is a finisher with good speed and shiftiness. He was named MVP of the Hockey East Tournament two weekends ago. He is expected to be in the lineup for the Sabres’ game against New York Islanders on Sunday.