Dahlin - Buffalo Hockey Beat

Sabres’ inability to find steals in NHL Draft contributed to demise

BUFFALO – Nine years ago, the Sabres, whose knack for unearthing mid- and late-round draft gems helped them morph into a Stanley Cup contender earlier in the decade, found another undervalued youngster.

When the Sabres selected Marcus Foligno in the fourth round, 104th overall, he was simply a talented kid with a familiar name.

But the son of former Sabres captain Mike Foligno would quickly develop into one of junior hockey’s top forward prospects.... Read the full article

High school prospect Jay O’Brien could be intriguing option for Sabres

BUFFALO – Center Jay O’Brien’s decision to continue his burgeoning hockey career in high school was met with some skepticism.

After all, NHL Draft prospects enjoy the option of developing in top junior leagues. O’Brien could’ve spent his senior season playing in the United States Hockey League, a circuit known for producing NHL talent.... Read the full article

Rasmus Dahlin embraces spotlight, won’t acknowledge future with Sabres

BUFFALO – About 40 media members, including 20 cameramen, swarmed around Rasmus Dahlin, the presumptive first overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft.

Many youngsters might’ve showcased some nerves in the spotlight answering question after question. Dahlin, less than two months removed from his 18th birthday, reveled in all the attention Friday inside HarborCenter.

Dahlin, believe it or not, said he “loves” dealing with the media.... Read the full article

Rasmus Dahlin comfortable in spotlight

BUFFALO – About 40 media members, including 20 cameramen, swarmed around Rasmus Dahlin, the presumptive first overall pick.

Some youngsters might’ve showcased a few nerves in the spotlight. Dahlin, less than two months removed from his 18th birthday, handled it like a pro this afternoon.

Heck, Dahlin said he “loves” dealing with the media.... Read the full article

Coach on future Sabre Rasmus Dahlin: ‘He will do everything for the team first’

BUFFALO – Roger Rönnberg’s first glimpses of defenseman Rasmus Dahlin are seared in his memory.

Of course, Dahlin’s many talents, particularly his sublime decision making – “He was amazing,” Rönnberg said – wowed the coach that day about three years ago inside a small rink in Gothenburg, Sweden.

But something else Dahlin showcased skating for Sweden’s under-18 team at such a young age convinced Rönnberg he was watching a defenseman destined for great things.... Read the full article

Sabres sign prospect Rasmus Asplund to entry-level contract

The Sabres have signed Rasmus Asplund, one of their top forward prospects, to a three-year, entry-level contract, the team announced today.

Asplund, 20, played his third full Swedish Hockey League season in 2017-18, compiling eight goals, 20 assists and 28 points – all career highs – in 50 games with Färjestad BK.... Read the full article

Sabres to play Hockeyville preseason game in Clinton

The NHL has chosen the Buffalo Sabres – a last-place team that will boast some notable talent next season – to play in the annual the Hockeyville preseason game, this time against the Columbus Blue Jackets Sept. 25 in Clinton.

The Central New York town won the right to host an exhibition contest and $150,000 in rink upgrades for Clinton Arena after compiling the most votes online.... Read the full article

Mike Weber knows Rasmus Dahlin will be special player for Sabres

Prior to Mike Weber’s short stint overseas, the former Buffalo Sabres defenseman watched some highlights of a 17-year-old phenom he would be joining with Frolunda HC, a Swedish Hockey League team.

The whiz kid’s name? Rasmus Dahlin, the ultra-gifted defenseman the Sabres will select first overall after winning Saturday’s NHL Draft Lottery.... Read the full article

Coveted prospect Rasmus Dahlin will make Sabres relevant again

TORONTO – With the bounce of a ball, the Buffalo Sabres, one of the NHL’s laughingstocks for years, suddenly became relevant again.

Years from now, winning Saturday’s NHL Draft Lottery could be remembered as a seminal moment in franchise history.

When the Sabres pick Rasmus Dahlin first overall June 22 in Dallas, they will possess arguably the best defense prospect in decades. The Swede has superstar potential. Even at 18 years old – if you ... Read the full article

Sabres notes: Phil Housley likely has ace defenseman in Rasmus Dahlin

TORONTO – Over Phil Housley’s first season as coach, the Sabres rarely showcased the aggressive style the slick Hall of Fame defenseman wants to implement in Buffalo.

The NHL’s worst team didn’t possess the talent to play fast and move the puck from the blue line the way Nashville Predators did during Housley’s successful stint as an assistant coach.... Read the full article