Rasmus Dahlin Denies Trade request Amid Sabres Struggles
Star Defenseman Committed to Buffalo Despite Playoff Drought
Buffalo, NY – Rasmus Dahlin, the Buffalo Sabres’ No. 1 overall pick from the 2018 NHL Draft, has publicly refuted rumors that he requested a trade from the team. The denial comes as the Sabres face another season without a playoff appearance, extending their league-worst drought to 14 years [[1](https://www.prohockeyrumors.com/2025/03/sabres-rasmus-dahlin-refutes-trade-request-rumors.html)].
Dahlin Expresses Frustration, Affirms Commitment
Speaking to reporters after practice, Dahlin addressed the report directly. “I have never said I want out of here,” the defenseman stated. “I’m not happy (with) where we’re at. I don’t want to lose. We have to get better. I’ve never said I want out of here. I thought that was pretty clear.” He conveyed further annoyance with the rumors, emphasizing that he has never mentioned wanting to leave the Sabres.
Sabres’ Playoff Hopes Dim
The Sabres currently sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 25-33-6. Following a 7-3 defeat to the Detroit Red Wings, the team trails the Columbus blue Jackets by 14 points for the second wild card spot with only 18 games remaining in the season.
Dahlin’s Performance adn Leadership
Dahlin, who turns 25 next month [[1](https://www.prohockeyrumors.com/2025/03/sabres-rasmus-dahlin-refutes-trade-request-rumors.html)], is in the first year of an eight-year, $88 million contract with an average annual value of $11 million [[1](https://www.prohockeyrumors.com/2025/03/sabres-rasmus-dahlin-refutes-trade-request-rumors.html)]. He was named captain on Sept. 26, 2024. This season, he has recorded 51 points (11 goals, 40 assists) in 56 games.
Team’s Resolve and Recent Changes
Dahlin expressed optimism about the team’s future, saying, “we have a lot of really, really good competitors who want to turn this around.That what gives me the most hope.” He added, “The guys are willing to do whatever it takes to get better. We have had a lot of discussion lately of what we have to do and how we have to move forward. And we’re definitely not happy where we’re at.”
The Sabres have been active in reshaping their roster. Recent acquisitions include defenseman Bowen Byram, forwards Ryan McLeod and Beck Malenstyn, and the signing of Jason Zucker. Prior to the 2025 Trade Deadline, the Sabres traded Dylan Cozens and Dennis Gilbert for Josh Norris and Jacob Bernard-Docker. Zucker and Jordan Greenway also recently signed two-year contract extensions.
Honest Discussions and Future Outlook
Dahlin revealed that he and General Manager Kevyn Adams had an hour-long discussion recently. “We had a really good discussion,” Dahlin said. “We were very honest with each other. Stuff has to change. That’s how it is. I absolutely hate losing. I don’t think that’s a part of who I want to be. Stuff has to change.” Dahlin acknowledged his own need for advancement,stating,”I’m a part of it. I haven’t played good enough. We haven’t won games. I take responsibility, too. Stuff has to change. That’s the bottom line.”
**Q: What specific changes did Rasmus Dahlin suggest are needed for the Sabres to improve?**
Rasmus Dahlin Denies Trade Request Amid Sabres Struggles – Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Why are there rumors about Rasmus Dahlin wanting to leave the Sabres?
A: The rumors likely stem from the Sabres’ ongoing struggles.They are facing another season without a playoff appearance, extending their league-worst drought to 14 years. Dahlin, as a star player, is naturally subject to speculation when the team isn’t performing well.
Q: What did Dahlin say about the trade rumors?
A: Dahlin explicitly stated that he has never requested a trade. He expressed frustration with the team’s losing record but affirmed his commitment to Buffalo.
Q: How is the Sabres team performing this season?
A: The Sabres are at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 25-33-6, a 7-3 defeat to the Detroit Red Wings, trailing the columbus blue Jackets by 14 points for the second wild card spot with only 18 games remaining.
Q: What is Dahlin’s current contract situation?
A: Dahlin is in the first year of an eight-year, $88 million contract, with an average annual value of $11 million. He was named captain on September 26, 2024.His birthday is next month.
Q: What is Dahlin’s performance been like this season?
A: He has recorded 51 points (11 goals, 40 assists) in 56 games this season.
Q: Have the Sabres made any recent roster changes?
A: Yes, the Sabres have been active. Recent acquisitions include defenseman Bowen Byram,forwards Ryan McLeod and Beck Malenstyn and the signing of Jason Zucker. The Sabres traded Dylan Cozens and Dennis Gilbert to get Josh Norris and Jacob Bernard-Docker. Zucker and Jordan Greenway have also signed two-year contract extensions.
Q: What did Dahlin and the General Manager, Kevyn Adams, discuss?
A: They had an hour-long, honest discussion. Dahlin emphasized that “stuff has to change” and acknowledged his own need for enhancement.
Q: Anything captivating about Dahlin?
A: Rasmus Dahlin is a highly skilled and talented player. He was the first overall pick in the 2018 NHL draft, and he has the talent to become one of the greatest defensemen in NHL history.
Q: What is the outlook for the Sabres?
A: Dahlin expressed optimism, citing the competitive spirit of the team. However, the team’s current performance and the need for change highlight the challenges ahead.
Q: what is Dahlin’s leadership role?
A: Dahlin was named the captain of the Buffalo Sabres on September 26th, 2024. He leads the team with a combination of skill and determination.
Dahlin’s commitment is clear, but the Sabres’ future hinges on their ability to turn things around. Stay tuned to see how the team evolves!
