What Happened
Rasmus Dahlin returned to practice with the Buffalo Sabres on Monday for the first time since Oct. 11 and told reporters he is ready to play after missing three games with an upper-body injury. The captain is expected to rejoin the lineup Wednesday against the Philadelphia Flyers. Dahlin said he would see how things go Tuesday before finalizing his return, and coach Lindy Ruff said the defenseman looked good in practice.
Key Details
- Dahlin missed the Sabres' last three games with an upper-body injury.
- He was hurt last week against Florida after reaching for his back following a shot.
- He left that game early in the second period after 7:08 of ice time and a goal.
- Dahlin practiced Monday for the first time since Oct. 11.
- He was a Norris Trophy finalist last season.
- Buffalo hosts Philadelphia on Wednesday.
What It Means
Dahlin is Buffalo's captain and top defenseman, so his return restores a major piece of the Sabres' blue line and power play after a short absence. His own comments suggested he expected the injury to be brief, and Ruff's assessment after Monday's practice pointed toward him being available for the Flyers game.
What's Next
Dahlin said he would see how he feels Tuesday before the team finalizes his status for Wednesday's game against Philadelphia.