Leopold signs with Sabres - 07-01-10

With the Penguins loading up on defenseman, Jordan Leopold became expendable. As a result, he signed a three-year deal worth a total of $3 million per season with the Sabres.

In 81 games split between the Panthers and Penguins, Leopold recorded 26 points (11 goals, 15 assists) and was a minus-2. In 20 games alone with the Penguins, Leopold recorded eight points (four goals, four assists) and was a plus-5. Two of his goals with the Penguins were game-winners.

Leopold, 29, appeared in eight playoff games for the Penguins, but missed five due to a head injury.

EN Says: Leopold was solid for the Penguins and would've been a solid re-signing, but with the addition of Paul Martin and Zbynek Michalek, they simply didn't need him.

With the Sabres losing Henrik Tallinder and Toni Lydman on defense today, they needed someone like Leopold.

Leopold will move the puck, eat up minutes and generally be responsible in any zone on the ice. And for $3 million per season, he's very affordable.

(Photo: Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)