‘The defense for the Sabres used to be described as inept, at best. Now with talented first-overall pick Rasmus Dahlin in the fold, the incumbent defensemen for the Sabres can play more freely. This is most true with Rasmus Ristolainen, who was relied upon to be the anchor of the Sabres’ defense while also providing all the offense from the blue line. It was simply too much to ask of him. With Dahlin taking on more minutes, Ristolainen is rested and liberated. He can finally play the game the way he wants to.’