With the start of NHL free agency just hours away, the Buffalo Sabres locked up foward Paul Gaustad to a four-year, $9.2-million contract Monday. Gaustad would have become a restricted free agent at noon Tuesday. According to TSN.COM, "Goose" will earn $1.7 million this season, then $2.5 million per year for the remaining three years. The big forward has spent his entire career with the Sabres, scoring 10 goals with 26 assists last season.

Also Monday, GM Darcy Regier addressed the media after another day of the teams' Developmental Camp at Niagara University. Regier says the team has begun preliminary contract talks with goaltender Ryan Miller, who would become an unrestricted free agent next season. Forward Jason Pominville's contract also runs out after this season, and Regier says he intends to start negotiations soon.

Free agency begins Tuesday at noon, and Regier says the Sabres have targeted some players, but doesn't expect any significant moves.