Rasmus Dahlin Leads the Way as Sabres Outduel Leafs in Toronto
TORONTO - It wasn’t a 10-point night, but Rasmus Dahlin made sure his fingerprints were all over this one. The Buffalo Sabres’ star defenseman turned in a commanding performance Tuesday night in Toronto, helping the Sabres knock off the Maple Leafs and inch closer to a team milestone that’s been years in the making.
Dahlin, as he often does, played with purpose and poise, dictating the pace from the back end. He scored a goal and set up another, pushing his season totals to impressive heights and continuing to anchor a Sabres team that’s quietly building something real. His second-period goal was vintage Dahlin - a smooth skate into the zone, a quick read of the defense, and a snap shot that beat Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll clean.
It was a night where the Sabres didn’t just show up - they showed out.
Buffalo’s win marked their third straight and their 25th of the season, a number that might not raise eyebrows in some markets but carries weight in Western New York. This group hasn’t hit that mark before the All-Star break in over a decade. And while there’s still a long road ahead, this version of the Sabres is starting to feel different - tougher, more confident, and, most importantly, more consistent.
The Sabres leaned on their young core, and it paid off. Dahlin wasn’t alone in making noise.
Tyson Kozak, recently called up from Rochester, chipped in with an assist and looked comfortable in the moment. Noah Ostlund, another promising piece of the rebuild, nearly lit the lamp in the first period, forcing Woll into a highlight-reel save.
Buffalo’s depth is beginning to show, and that’s a big deal for a franchise that’s spent the last few seasons trying to find the right mix.
Head coach Don Granato was quick to praise the group’s effort postgame, noting the team’s ability to respond to adversity and stay composed in a hostile environment like Scotiabank Arena. The Sabres didn’t just survive the Leafs’ push - they matched it and, at times, dictated play. That’s a sign of growth.
Toronto had its moments, especially in the third period, when they poured on pressure in search of the equalizer. But Buffalo’s defensive structure held firm, and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stood tall in net, turning away a flurry of late chances to preserve the win.
The Sabres’ penalty kill was another bright spot, stifling a Leafs power play that’s been lethal all season. Dahlin, again, was key here - logging heavy minutes, blocking shots, and making smart clears under pressure.
With the All-Star break looming, Buffalo’s push for playoff relevance is gaining momentum. They’ve now won five of their last six and are starting to climb the standings in a crowded Eastern Conference race. And while there’s no shortage of work ahead, nights like this - in a tough building, against a skilled opponent - show just how far this team has come.
Dahlin’s performance was the headline, but the supporting cast played their roles to perfection. From the bottom-six forwards grinding out shifts to the blue line staying disciplined in transition, this was a full-team effort.
And for a franchise that’s been chasing stability and identity, that’s the biggest win of all.