Rasmus Dahlin’s Ultimatum Update: What Really Happened in Meeting With Sabres GM
The Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin recently sat down with general manager Kevyn Adams to discuss the team’s future, sparking plenty of speculation about his intentions.
The meeting, reported by Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts Podcast, came after rumors swirled that Dahlin had issued an ultimatum: improve the team or face a trade request.
However, Dahlin quickly shut down those claims, denying a report from Spittin’ Chiclets host Paul Bissonnette. Friedman confirmed the meeting took place but clarified that it was more about seeking clarity on the Sabres’ direction rather than making demands.
According to Friedman, Dahlin left the conversation feeling “satisfied” with what he heard. The star defenseman has been vocal about his frustration with losing, and let’s face it—the Sabres have been stuck in a rut for years.
Dahlin is eager to see the team take meaningful steps toward playoff contention.
The Cozens Trade: A Necessary Move?
The discussion between Dahlin and Adams also touched on the recent trade that sent Dylan Cozens to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for Josh Norris. While Cozens has been thriving in Ottawa, the Sabres saw an opportunity to address a critical need.
Norris, a skilled center, is a valuable asset in a league where top-tier centers are hard to come by. With teams like St. Louis and Nashville also eyeing Norris, Adams felt the timing was right to pull the trigger.
According to reports, Dahlin understood the reasoning and was on board with the decision.
Are the Sabres Close to Turning the Corner?
On paper, the Sabres look like a team that should be competing for a playoff spot. But as Friedman pointed out, they’re missing that intangible “team-first” mentality—the kind of unity that makes players fight for each other on the ice.
He suggested the Sabres need a defining moment to rally around, similar to how the Toronto Maple Leafs found inspiration by studying the Tampa Bay Lightning’s pack-like mentality.
At the end of the day, winning cures all. If the Sabres can start translating their potential into victories, much of the frustration within the locker room will fade.
Image - Marc DesRosiers-Imagn
