Buffalo Sabres: Rasmus Dahlin injury not considered serious

While there has been no official word yet, Rasmus Dahlin is expected to suit up on Sunday for the Buffalo Sabres, when they face the New York Rangers.

Life is good for the Buffalo Sabres right now. As we approach the quarter-way point of the regular season, they’re well-placed in their battle to finally end a playoff drought which currently stands at seven years.

However, Sabres fans always have an uneasy feeling in the back of their minds, due to the torrid time they have endured in recent seasons. They almost expect something to go wrong, even when things seem to be going well.

For example, take Saturday’s game against the Ottawa Senators. In their most complete performance of the season so far, the Sabres destroyed the Sens 9-2 at KeyBank Center.

And yet, there was still a certain amount of concern, centering on an incident involving Rasmus Dahlin. He suffered an injury during the second period, after blocking a shot from Matt Duchene with his foot.

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As a result of the block, Dahlin didn’t return for the final period. Understandably, his status was a focus of interest for the media after the game.

Fortunately for the team and their fans, the initial prognosis is that the injury is nothing serious. As per by Mike Harrington of The Buffalo News, Sabres coach Phil Housley said the young defenseman was fine to travel to New York with the team.

In fact, as reported by TSN‘s Bob McKenzie, the expectation is that Dahlin will play on Sunday night against the Rangers. At this stage though, we are still awaiting official confirmation from the team.

In truth, it might be best to take a cautious approach with the 2018 first overall draft pick, even if he is passed as fit to suit up against the Rangers. There is no need to rush him back to action, especially as the Sabres’ following game isn’t until Thursday,

The Sabres have made sure not to put too much pressure on Dahlin just yet, despite being heralded as a franchise blue-liner. While he has appeared in ever game so far, he is only fifth among team defensemen in average ice time.

Not that the 18-year-old hasn’t shown glimpses of his undoubted talent. This has included five points (one goal and four assists), 11 blocks and 16 hits.

There have also been other aspects on display, which don’t show up on the stat sheet. Dahlin’s calmness in possession of the puck stands out, along with his overall positioning.

Of course, there have been periods when the Swedish international has performed poorly. However, as good he is, this is to be expected for a teenager playing in his first NHL season.

Overall, the future looks extremely bright for Dahlin (and the franchise). And with this in mind, don’t be surprised if the Sabres decide not to play him on Sunday.

Even if Dahlin is cleared to play on Sunday, would you rest him as a precaution, or let him suit up? Regardless, what is your take on his play so far this season for the Buffalo Sabres? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.