Less than 24 hours before the start of the 2017-18 season, the Sabres announced they had agreed to an 8-year deal with Jack Eichel.
Wednesday, the deal was officially signed and a number of players took to social media to congratulate the 20-year-old on his new contract.
We imagine Eichel received a ton of texts from other players, too, and as he revealed to Pierre LeBrun, one player that texted him was Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Moments like these show the mutual respect the two stars have for each other, and back in September Eichel praised Matthews and the way he plays the game. As much as he respects Matthews and his game, though, Eichel also admitted that his Sabres don't like the Leafs. With the Leafs storming out of the gates strong and the Sabres locked and loaded with young talent, the rivalry between Buffalo and Toronto will be interesting to watch for years to come, especially now that Eichel is locked up long term. (H/T: Pierre LeBrun)
