A few questions:

1- why Jokiharju over Samuelsson on the top pair?
Samuelsson has shown to be much more solid in his own end, and is the kind of partner that makes sense for Dahlin- they’ve been great together

2- Puljujarvi…. why?
Seems like a total bust & an average player to me

I would like Johnson to work with Sammy on all aspects of game. Hopefully if he is not playing the big Min he can stay healthy all year. Joki had success with Dahls it was just Sabres had no one else so they had to split them up. It is a big year to see what goes on for Joki future.

Puli a change of scenery with a coach that gets the most out of young players may be a win win. He was a 1st overall pick. Plays a good D game and a big body. Worth a shot til Quinn healthy or it doesn’t work out. Good be a gem or a bust. We have the space and room

Interesting ideas, but:

1- despite it being a “big year” for Jokiharju (i agree btw), I’d personally lock Samuelsson in with Dahlin- & if he does get hurt again, that’s when I’d give Jokiharju another shot with Dahlin. Samuelsson & Dahlin have just been too good together to break up imo

2- yeah, i guess i don’t mind Puljujarvi. Just wouldn’t expect much based on what I’ve seen so far. And with all the forward talent we have, my guess is that Adams would give one of the kids a shot over him.

Sammy would be best with Dahlin for his growth. I think for the 6 as a full D unit Sammy would be better with E Johnson. The old McKee Warrener shut down D partners.


I don’t see it with Puli to be honest. Adams would never. He would be a guy I would bring in. But I don’t see KA doing that.

Our 3rd pair- no matter who is on it- just isn’t gonna get played those kinds of minutes, or in those important situations though

So I’m not looking for them to be balanced
Dahlin’s pair is gonna get 25+ min,
and the 3rd pair will get under 15min depending on how well Power & his partner gel

So i say, strengthen the top pair as much as possible