Dahlin is not an 8 million dollar player just yet. He has all the potential in the world to be that guy, but he hasnt shown it just yet

I would give him a 2-3 year 5 million dollar deal similar to McAvoy to let him prove himself and then sign him to a monster contract

Why do sabers fans hate risto so much? I don't get it.

I understand where you are coming from and I agree. Dahlin was better in his rookie year when he was aloud to play his offensive game rushing the puck. Krueger didn’t really let him do that hopefully that changes. But Eichel didn’t deserve at 10x8 after two decent seasons now that contract looks pretty good. The reason behind it would be banking on his high potential.

He isn’t the best defenseman.

Because he sucks

Yeah, but is it really worth it to take that risk? What if Dahlin doesnt pan out and the Sabres are stuck with a bad contract. Its a lot safer to give him a bridge deal and let him prove himself

But yes, Dahlin had one of the best seasons by an 18 year old defenseman we have seen in a long time and kinda regressed a bit this year. He should pan out, but I wouldnt take that risk

Yeah you don’t want a Clayton Keller contract.. that’s why I think it’s a good idea to wait until next offseason to see if he deserves a big contract.

why does he suck??? Does he only think about offense or something or is a puckhog or what??

His offense is fine. His defense is pretty bad due to a low hockey IQ. Hes great in 3v3 overtime though.

He puts up a decent amount of points, but none of them are generated by himself. His defense is awful, hes got super low IQ. Hes a decent skater who likes to carry the puck but isnt actually good

all tools no toolbox ...same thing with nurse + Matheson. Very few defenseman are talented enough to have a positive impact with low IQ.

Ristolinen is actually a pretty damn good defenseman. hes just more of a ofencivly minded one

IDK why people "think" he sucks.
Too many people read and not watch.
He makes errors but all defensemen make mistakes, did anyone watch Brad May score on Ray Bourque?
At least four HC played him more than any other defenseman.
While one could argue when he first came to the NHL he was the ONLY NHL defenseman on the team.
That is not the case any more, Dahlin, Montour, are both top pairing defensemen and Miller, McCabe and Jokiharju are very solid.
Because the team has more defenseman depth, his ice time has been dramatically reduced.
He still plays against the other teams best lines, but his +/- was reduce from -41 last year to just -2 this past year.
He hits, plays in every situation, scores pts and seems to enjoy his role.
Let me add, big players take longer to develop, look at Chara's +/- early in his career.
He was rushed into the NHL.
He has flaws but over all he brings a lot to the game.
I would only trade him unless the return is remarkable.

... +/- is a horrible stat. That literally has nothing to do with how good he is