Rasmus Dahlin isn’t going anywhere, and he wants everyone to know it.
The Buffalo Sabres star defenseman fired back Tuesday at rumors suggesting he’s looking for a way out of the struggling team.
“I don’t know what [Bissonnette]’s talking about. I have never said I want out of here,” Dahlin said, visibly frustrated by claims made on TNT’s “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast. “That bugs me, actually. I get p—– off by that.”
The 24-year-old has been one of the few bright spots in what’s turning into another tough season for Buffalo. He’s racked up 51 points in 55 games, including 11 goals and 40 assists.
It’s been a rough stretch for both Dahlin and the Sabres. The team sits dead last in the Eastern Conference with a 25-32-6 record, and they’re on track for their worst season since that nightmare 2020-21 campaign.
But Dahlin’s not looking for an escape route.
“I’m not happy with where we’re at, I don’t want to lose,” he said. “I haven’t even mentioned the word ‘leave.’ That’s just how it is.”
The former No. 1 overall pick just started the first year of a massive eight-year, $88 million contract. Starting July 1, he’ll have complete control over any potential trades thanks to a no-move clause.
Meanwhile, the Sabres have been shaking things up. They recently traded Dylan Cozens to Ottawa for Joshua Norris, and there were whispers about possible deals involving young defenders Bowen Byram and Owen Power.
Despite the team’s struggles, Dahlin’s been playing some of his best hockey. He’s controlling over 55% of shot attempts when he’s on the ice and is expected to get serious consideration for the Norris Trophy, given to the NHL’s best defenseman.
For now, it seems the Sabres’ cornerstone defenseman is staying put, even as the team faces its 13th straight season without making the playoffs.
