‘As the Sabres go, so will Dahlin’s chances at being a Norris finalist. He finished sixth in voting last season for the award, given annually to the top defenseman in the NHL (won by Colorado’s Cale Makar), and Dahlin alone is a force on the blue line. He’s 25 years old and enters his eighth season, which, in NHL years, means he’s in his prime. But Dahlin can’t play 60 minutes – he averaged 24:14 in 73 games last season – so his teammates need to step up and help the Sabres’ efforts to become a better defensive team. They can start by cutting down goals against (287, tied for 30th in the NHL in 2024-25). Imagine how Dahlin’s chances at the Norris would skyrocket if the Sabres fulfill Lindy Ruff’s wish of being a stronger defensive team.’