Photo via twitter.com/BuffaloSabres
Earlier today the Buffalo Sabres introduced their new franchise defenceman to the public at a press conference.
During the media session Rasmus Dahlin unveiled his new number, discussed how he feels joining the Sabres organization, and what he is looking forward to this upcoming season.
On top of that Sabres’ GM Jason Botterill discussed the team’s plan regarding restricted free agency, and some plans for the upcoming off-season.
Dahlin’s Portion
Dahlin will be wearing Matt Moulson’s #26 with the Buffalo Sabres, confirming what many thought… Moulson is not in the Sabres’ plans for 2018-19.
The Swedish defender also talked about how happy he was to be drafted, and how happy he is as a member of the Buffalo Sabres.
Rasmus on how it feels to be in Buffalo: “it feels amazing to finally just put on this jersey and this logo.”
— The Charging Buffalo (@TheChargingBUF) June 25, 2018
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Much has been made about Dahlin “saving” the franchise, in the same way Jack Eichel was dubbed the team’s savior, but as humble as he is Dahlin is only focused on playing hockey and winning hockey games.
Dahlin on pressure to save a bottom place team: “I don’t really think of it that way. I’m just motivated and really want to win hockey games.”
— The Charging Buffalo (@TheChargingBUF) June 25, 2018
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Jason Botterill’s Off-Season Plan
After Dahlin spoke, Botterill fielded questions from the media on a wide variety of topics.
With qualifying offers due today for restricted free agents, the Sabres’ GM let us know what he plans on doing this off-season.
All RFAs other than Robin Lehner, Scott Wilson and Victor Antipin will receive qualifying offers. Meaning they will all be unrestricted free agents come July 1.
However, Wilson remains in Botterill’s plan and he will try and sign him once free agency opens.
Jason Botterill said again they won’t qualify Robin Lehner. They also will not qualify Victor Antipin or Scott Wilson. Not qualifying Wilson so as to avoid arbitration. Hoping to re-sign on July 1
— Joe Yerdon (@JoeYerdon) June 25, 2018
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The last big tidbit that Botterill gave the media was regarding Lawrence Pilut, the reining SHL Defenceman of the Year.
Unlike Antipin, Pilut will begin his North American career in Rochester where he will be able to adjust to the North American game until he is ready to make the jump to the NHL.
This makes a lot of sense because the Sabres don’t want to make the same mistakes they did with Antipin, and hopefully Pilut can be a contributor for the Sabres going forward.
Make sure to be following @TheChargingBUF and all of our contributors for off-season coverage. Free Agency kicks off on July 1 and we will have all the updates that you need.
