Butcher likely to make Devils debut in Buffalo at Prospects Challenge

Will Butcher might be in for a frosty reception in his unofficial debut with the New Jersey Devils.

The 22-year-old defenseman, who decided Sunday to join the Devils on an entry-level contract, plans on playing for New Jersey in the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo next month, according to NHL.com's Mike Morreale.

Butcher reportedly spoke with the Buffalo Sabres, along with several other clubs, before making his decision.

The Sabres were spurned by a high-profile college free agent for the second straight year, following Jimmy Vesey's decision last summer to sign with the New York Rangers rather than join Buffalo, which acquired his negotiating rights in a trade with the Nashville Predators.

The third annual Prospects Challenge will run Sept. 8-11 at Buffalo's HarborCenter and will feature young players from the Sabres, Devils, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Boston Bruins.