Rasmus Dahlin was chosen the new captain of the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday. By no means was it an unexpected development. For a few years now, Dahlin has been among the finest players on the Sabres. Also, he has a track record of leading this club both on and off the rink.
Dahlin takes over as the Sabres captain from recently retiring forward Kyle Okposo. At the NHL Trade Deadline of the previous year, Okposo was moved to the Florida Panthers. Due to this, Buffalo was without a captain in the last few weeks of the 2023–24 NHL season. The new captain of the Sabres, who is wearing the C on his sweater, expressed his feelings about being recognized.
Dahlin stated on Friday, via NHL.com, “It’s an honor.” That’s most likely the happiest moment of my life. It has great meaning for me. Although it’s a tremendous responsibility, I’m thrilled and ready for it. With the team we now have and the direction we’re taking, I feel like I can contribute to something significant.
Sabres response to Rasmus Dahlin’s selection as captain
As previously said, Rasmus Dahlin was an obvious choice to lead the Sabres. He has been this team’s leader both on and off the court. A valid case can be made for the Swedish defender to represent this team as its face. It comes as no surprise, then, that he will assume captaincy this autumn.
It’s only been a few months since Lindy Ruff became the new head coach of the Sabres. But the veteran bench coach only had to watch Dahlin during practice and training camp to know everything he needed to know. It made choosing the captaincy comparatively simple.
According to NHL.com, Ruff stated, “Well, in my opinion, his actions speak volumes; the way he plays, the way he practices, the way he prepares, and the respect he has from his teammates.” “Having all those attributes is definitely crucial if you want to lead the club.”
Dahlin’s leadership characteristics were also mentioned by his teammates on the Sabres. particularly after Okposo was traded to the Panthers in the midst of the previous year. Over the past few years, many of his teammates have found inspiration in him.
According to player JJ Peterka, “he’s been a great leader always on and off the ice,” according to NHL.com. “Okposo really stepped up and took charge of the team, especially after he was traded last year. I’ve been admiring him ever since moving to Buffalo, so I wasn’t shocked.
Dahlin is unquestionably qualified to lead the Sabres. It will be intriguing to observe how the squad unites in support of him on the ice. On October 4, the Buffalo defenceman will play his first game as captain when they take on the New Jersey Devils in Dahlin’s home country of Sweden.
