'Fitzpatrick is now 28, faster than ever and among the most improved players in the league over the past two years. His play last season contributed to the Sabres trading Rhett Warrener in the deal that landed them Chris Drury. Fitzpatrick was making $70,000 two years ago with the Amerks, but he'll pocket $375,000 this year on a one-way contract with the Sabres. Yeah, you could say it paid off.'