Instant reaction to the Buffalo Sabres’ first-round pick, defenseman Rasmus Dahlin
The Buffalo Sabres selected defenseman Rasmus Dahlin from Sweden with the first overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NHL Draft. This should come as no surprise, as the talented blueliner has been the consensus number one pick since the 2017 NHL Draft ended.
Dahlin comes to the Sabres with a ton of hype. And rightfully so. As a 17-year-old in the SHL, Dahlin had the most productive season ever from an under-18 defenseman in league history. He made it to the 2018 Winter Olympics for Team Sweden, posting an assist in two appearances. At the World Juniors, Dahlin put up six assists in seven games.
Initial reaction
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The Sabres have finally found someone who they can build their blueline around. Dahlin is one of the most impressive blueline prospects in recent memory. He has proven himself against both his peers and adults. This should help him make a very smooth transition to the NHL.
Dahlin is the prototypical modern defenseman. He’s extremely mobile and can do a lot of damage with the puck. Dahlin is also a force to be reckoned with defensively. While he’s not afraid to throw hits, he also rarely leaves his designated coverage to do so. Dahlin also has a very active stick, as he isn’t afraid to poke the puck loose.
How Rasmus Dahlin fits
He should be ready to play significant minutes for the Sabres this season. Buffalo will likely want to ease him in, but Dahlin’s an outstanding talent who’s ready for the next level. It will be interesting to see how much playing time he gets.
Dahlin is already the Sabres’ top left-handed option and could see significant playing time with Rasmus Ristolainen right off the bat.
Next: 2018 NHL Draft Live Tracker
Grade: A+
This pick is a no-brainer for the Buffalo Sabres. They haven’t had a franchise defenseman in so long. Dahlin gives them a building block. The Sabres still have a lot of work to do to become competitive, but he should give them a significant boost.