Buffalo Sabres’ Rasmus Dahlin Returns After Personal Leave

DETROIT – Rasmus Dahlin will rejoin the Buffalo Sabres after taking a three-game personal leave of absence. The Sabres face the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday at Little Caesars Arena, marking a rematch of their October 22 victory.

In their previous encounter, Buffalo secured a 4-2 win, showcasing balanced scoring with contributions from players like Jason Zucker, Tyson Kozak, Jack Quinn, and Alex Tuch. Quinn’s power-play goal early in the third period proved to be the game-winner, helping the Sabres display a strong defensive start, not allowing a shot on goal from the Red Wings until midway through the first.

“We looked at that game, and it was probably our best first period of the year,” coach Lindy Ruff said. “We need to start strong. Yesterday was a travel day and off-ice; we know we’ve got to be ready to move right off the bat against these guys.”

Despite their past success against Detroit, the Sabres have struggled lately, allowing an average of 4.0 goals per game and posting a 2-4-4 record. Coach Ruff emphasized the need for timely defense and effective goaltending to end their five-game winless streak. Colten Ellis, who made his NHL debut against Detroit and secured a win with 29 saves, is expected to start in goal again.

Buffalo aims to achieve a similar offensive performance, though they will miss players like Zucker (illness), Zach Benson (lower body), and Jiri Kulich (blood clot) due to injuries. Additionally, Dahlin’s return is pivotal, as he adds depth to the Sabres’ roster.

The Sabres are looking to bounce back after allowing three quick goals in another game against Colorado. Ruff acknowledged the team needs to improve its defensive play, stating, “We didn’t defend well enough. We’re a better defending team than that.”

The Red Wings have shown improvement following their October loss to Buffalo, achieving a 5-5-0 record since that match. They recently defeated the Anaheim Ducks 6-3, breaking a three-game losing streak. They will attempt to exploit the Sabres’ weaknesses as they have the offensive firepower, with players like Dylan Larkin and Alex DeBrincat performing consistently.

As the Sabres prepare for this challenge, they aim to better their performance at Little Caesars Arena, where they have lost four straight games, last winning there in April 2023. Fans can tune in to the game on MSG with pregame coverage starting at 6:30 p.m. The puck drops at 7 p.m.