Dahlin - Buffalo Hockey Beat

Sabres’ Rasmus Dahlin showcasing evolving game, playing better defense

BUFFALO – When Rasmus Dahlin suffered a concussion in November, the injury created an opportunity for the Sabres defenseman.

Coach Ralph Krueger often says the Sabres utilize an injured player’s extra time by having “great coaching moments.”

So during his eight-game absence, Krueger said Dahlin, 19, studied film beside assistant coach Steve Smith, who runs the defense, multiple times.

“You can really calmly go through video and reflect and discuss,” Krueger said following Monday’s practice ... Read the full article

Colin Miller finally adjusting to Sabres, earning more playing time

BUFFALO – For the first time in three months, Sabres defenseman Colin Miller has developed some rhythm, playing eight straight games.

In mid-November, the Sabres started scratching their biggest offseason acquisition, and he sat out 16 of the next 32 games, never playing more than four straight contests.

Following two terrific seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights, Miller has adjusted to the Sabres’ system slowly.

But Miller, 27, has been performing better since the NHL ... Read the full article

Sabres stick with Jonas Johansson, nearly roar back against Ducks

BUFFALO – After the Anaheim Ducks scored their third goal early Sunday afternoon, Sabres coach Ralph Krueger said he considered yanking goalie Jonas Johansson.

Could you blame him?

Johansson, 24, struggled mightily for the opening 12 minutes of his second NHL start, allowing three goals on four shots after stopping the first two he faced.

The Swede looked a bit off and uncomfortable in the crease. He knew the hook might be coming.

“It ... Read the full article

Sabres notes: Jonas Johansson looks solid in first NHL start

BUFFALO – In the midst of an awful stretch during another lost season, goalie Jonas Johansson’s first NHL start Thursday should’ve given the Sabres a spark.

Johansson’s arrival has created some excitement and intrigue. The Swede, 24, has enjoyed a terrific season with the Rochester Americans, winning 13 of his 20 appearances and receiving AHL All-Star honors.

While Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has been tabbed the Sabres’ goalie of the future, Johansson, a third-round pick in ... Read the full article

In dreary season, Jonas Johansson’s first NHL start offers Sabres freshness

BUFFALO – In what has become another dreary season, goalie Jonas Johansson’s first NHL start tonight offers the Sabres some freshness.

While Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has been tabbed the Sabres’ goalie of the future, Johansson has developed into a strong prospect.

The former third-round pick ... Read the full article

Sabres’ Rasmus Dahlin questionable for game against Red Wings

BUFFALO – Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin briefly tested his upper-body injury during this morning’s practice inside LECOM Harborcenter before leaving the ice.

Coach Ralph Krueger said Dahlin, who missed Tuesday’s 6-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche, is questionable for Thursday’s home game against the Detroit Red Wings.

“It’s definitely not a long-term injury,” Krueger said.

Krueger said the Sabres are being cautious to make sure Dahlin feels 100% when he returns. Officially, Dahlin is day-to-day.... Read the full article

Sabres’ Brandon Montour gaining trust, earning big minutes

BUFFALO – Having piled up points throughout his career, Sabres defenseman Brandon Montour understands he has earned a reputation.

“People that see me as a player, I think, over the years, they think it was just offense,” Montour said prior to Tuesday’s 6-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche inside KeyBank Center.

Montour, 25, has averaged nine goals and 34 points in his two full NHL seasons. He put up 12 goals and 57 points in ... Read the full article

Sabres dealing with sickness, recall could be coming from Amerks

BUFFALO – In addition to what coach Ralph Krueger has termed some “light injuries,” the Sabres are dealing with some sickness going around the locker room.

So tonight’s lineup against the Colorado Avalanche isn’t set yet.

“I would love to be able to tell you the roster, but I have to be honest, we’re still assessing,” Krueger said this morning inside KeyBank Center.

Krueger said two defensemen are being assessed. Rasmus Dahlin, who had ... Read the full article

Sabres’ Rasmus Dahlin, Johan Larsson miss practice

BUFFALO – Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin and center Johan Larsson had maintenance days today and will be evaluated prior to Tuesday’s home game against the Colorado Avalanche, coach Ralph Krueger said.

Meanwhile, defenseman Brandon Montour, a late scratch with a lower-body injury for Saturday afternoon’s 2-1 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets, practiced today.

“Montour, we gave it a good shot today, and he’s just being assessed right now,” Krueger said inside KeyBank Center. “But ... Read the full article

Stunner: Sabres blow three-goal lead, fall to Lightning

BUFFALO – Halfway through Tuesday’s shocking 6-4 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, Sabres captain Jack Eichel showcased why he might be underutilized as a penalty killer.

With the Sabres up 3-1, Eichel pounced on a loose puck in his own zone and zoomed down the ice. When the slick center hit the right circle, he undressed defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk before skating through the slot and backhanding a shot by goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy for his ... Read the full article